Sindh Introduces Stricter Fire Safety Rules for Buildings

The Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) has introduced major amendments to the Building and Town Planning Regulations 2022 to strengthen fire safety standards and improve building compliance across Sindh.

According to SBCA officials, the changes were made in response to the Gul Plaza tragedy and are aimed at improving emergency access, safety infrastructure, and oversight mechanisms. The amendments have taken effect immediately.

Under the revised regulations, builders must now allocate an additional 16 percent space in every project for motorcycles and vehicles. Separate parking areas must also be provided for motorcycles and for public and visitor parking, beyond the overall parking requirement.

The goal is to ensure clear and unobstructed access for emergency and rescue services.

Licensing procedures have also been centralized. All new and renewal licenses across Sindh will now be issued exclusively through SBCA headquarters.

The new rules require fire-fighting infrastructure in public projects, industrial buildings, and welfare plots. This includes the planning and installation of dedicated underground and overhead water tanks. Water storage for firefighting must be permanently incorporated into building designs.

In addition, certified mechanical, electrical, and plumbing (MEP) drawings related to fire safety must be submitted to SBCA before final construction approval.

For commercial and industrial buildings, no-objection certificates (NOCs) from civil defense and fire departments are now mandatory. Completion plans will not be approved without these clearances.

Retail and commercial properties must also meet stricter internal fire safety requirements. Each shop must have at least one fire extinguisher, and departmental stores must install one extinguisher for every 400 square feet.

Authorities stated that no commercial or industrial project will receive a completion certificate until all required NOCs from civil defense, fire services, or relevant municipal bodies are submitted. The new regulations apply not only to future developments but also to all cases currently under review.

SBCA said the amendments are designed to close gaps in fire safety enforcement and improve building supervision across the province.