Good news for Bengaluru’s homeowners! The state government has announced that many small residential buildings in the city will no longer need to obtain an Occupancy Certificate (OC). The new rule, issued on September 9, 2025, under the Greater Bengaluru Governance Act, 2024, is designed to cut red tape and make life easier for ordinary citizens.
Until now, even small property owners had to go through lengthy procedures to secure an OC after construction. This often meant delays, repeated visits to government offices, and additional costs. With the latest exemption, buildings on plots up to 1200 sq. ft., including those with stilt plus three floors, are freed from this requirement. Certain public utility structures and smaller approved projects are also included in the exemption list.
For thousands of families building their dream homes, this move comes as a major relief. While individual houses get simplified rules, bigger projects—such as high-rise apartments, commercial complexes, and large layouts—will still need OCs to ensure safety and compliance.
By focusing on larger developments and easing rules for small homes, the government hopes to strike a balance between good governance and citizen convenience.
Until now, even small property owners had to go through lengthy procedures to secure an OC after construction. This often meant delays, repeated visits to government offices, and additional costs. With the latest exemption, buildings on plots up to 1200 sq. ft., including those with stilt plus three floors, are freed from this requirement. Certain public utility structures and smaller approved projects are also included in the exemption list.
For thousands of families building their dream homes, this move comes as a major relief. While individual houses get simplified rules, bigger projects—such as high-rise apartments, commercial complexes, and large layouts—will still need OCs to ensure safety and compliance.
By focusing on larger developments and easing rules for small homes, the government hopes to strike a balance between good governance and citizen convenience.





