Municipalities Ministry Establishes Comprehensive Regulations For Carports To Enhance Urban Design

The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has introduced specific technical and regulatory guidelines for constructing carports within property boundaries. This initiative aims to improve urban environments, enhance architectural design quality, and ensure safe space usage in residential and commercial areas. The regulations cover design, location, and materials for carports on private properties.

These guidelines are designed to ensure disciplined facility use, improve urban landscape integration, and minimise violations. They adhere to the Saudi Building Code (SBC) and universal accessibility standards, considering pedestrian paths and entrances for individuals with disabilities. The rules specify space requirements, setbacks, projection limits, and height restrictions for carports.

Carport designs must visually integrate with the building's architectural style and its surroundings. The regulations prohibit covering sides or using unapproved materials. Encroachment on sidewalks or pedestrian pathways is also forbidden. These measures aim to maintain a cohesive urban aesthetic while ensuring safety.

The ministry manages the permit issuance process through the "Balady" platform. It begins with submitting a building license or rental contract via the "Ejar" platform. Plans must be prepared by an accredited engineering office before review by relevant authorities. Electronic permits are issued upon approval.

This streamlined process simplifies procedures while ensuring technical compliance. General regulations include placing an identification card on the carport with a code containing permit details. Maintaining site cleanliness and sidewalk integrity is mandatory, as is standardising carport designs within a single building.

The permit holder is legally responsible for the carport and any obligations from its construction. Compliance with SBC accessibility requirements is essential. A 180-day corrective period has been granted for existing carports within property boundaries from the technical guide's publication date on official platforms.

Corrective Period for Existing Carports

During this period, owners must update their carports to meet approved standards. The ministry's focus is on enhancing urban organisation quality, balancing safety requirements with structural functionality, and providing a more organised urban environment aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 objectives.

With inputs from SPA