UDCPR Rule 7.0: Margins, Open Spaces, and Projections Around Buildings

Setbacks, margins, and open spaces play a major role in shaping the urban form of a city. Under UDCPR Rule 7.0, Maharashtra has introduced a unified approach to define how much open space must be left around buildings and what is permissible in those areas.

This blog explains everything you need to know about Rule 7.0 of UDCPR, including how margins are measured, what can be projected into them, and how ducts, balconies, and other architectural elements are regulated.

📐 What Are Margins and Open Spaces?

Margins are the open spaces around the building structure that must remain unbuilt, ensuring:

• Light and ventilation

• Fire safety access

• Aesthetic separation from adjoining properties

They are calculated from the plot boundary to the building line.

🔍 Key Points from UDCPR Rule 7.0

1. Minimum Open Space Requirements

Minimum front, side, and rear margins are governed by:

• Plot size

• Height of the building

• Width of abutting road

• Zone (R-1, R-2, Commercial, etc.)

Example:
For a residential building up to 10 m in height on a 300 sq.m plot, the minimum side margin may be 1.5 m, whereas for taller buildings, it may increase to 3 m or more.

2. Open Space vs. Setback

• Setback = Mandatory distance for approval

• Open Space = Usable and undeveloped area
  These are often the same but may vary slightly for special conditions like corner plots or irregular shapes.

3. Permissible Projections in Open Space

Some structural elements are allowed to encroach within marginal distances:

Projection TypeMax Allowable ProjectionChajjas (Sunshades)Up to 0.75 mCornicesUp to 0.6 mWeather ShedsUp to 0.5 mFlower BedsUp to 0.6 mOpen BalconyUp to 1.2 m (in some cases)

These are allowed only above a certain height (often above plinth level) and should not reduce fire access or violate minimum open space.

4. Prohibited Uses in Margins

Margins must not be used for:

• Parking (unless allowed by local bye-laws)

• Toilets, kitchens, or living rooms

• Compound walls or permanent encroachments

• DG sets or water tanks (if height obstructs ventilation)

However, underground water tanks, passages, ramps, or green landscaping may be allowed.

🏢 What About Ducts, Shafts, and Voids?

For buildings above G+1, ducts and ventilation shafts are essential for toilets, kitchens, and service areas.

Duct SizeMinimum RequirementFor one toilet1.2 m x 0.9 mFor 2+ toilets2.4 sq.m (Min width 1.2 m)

These ducts must open to open space, and not enclosed within rooms.

📏 Special Provisions for Narrow Plots

In case of narrow plots (less than 10 m width), side margins may be adjusted, provided:

• Fire and ventilation norms are met

• Windows face the road or internal court

• Consent is obtained (if required) from neighbors or planning authority

⚠️ Common Violations in Margins

❌ Constructing permanent rooms in margin space
❌ Projecting balconies beyond permissible limits
❌ Not leaving rear setback on corner plots
❌ Blocking ducts with furniture or partitions

These can lead to plan rejection, penalties, or occupancy certificate refusal.

✅ Tips for Complying with Rule 7.0

• Design with fire tender movement in mind

• Avoid placing windows/vents directly on plot boundary

• Use permitted projections to enhance aesthetics without violating norms

• Cross-check zone-specific margin requirements in your ULB (Urban Local Body)

📣 Final Thoughts

Margins and open spaces may seem like a loss of buildable area, but they ensure that your building is:

✅ Safe
✅ Healthy
✅ Approachable
✅ Legally Compliant

UDCPR Rule 7.0 helps standardize these requirements across the state while still offering flexibility for smart planning.

Designing within these limits doesn’t restrict creativity—it channels it for better living environments.