S Gopal Puri
SHIMLA

The government of Himachal Pradesh, under the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has implemented substantial modifications to the Town and Country Planning (TCP) regulations, resulting in increased expenses for house construction throughout the state.

As per the recent notification dated February 27, 2026, individuals and builders who wish to obtain approval for additional construction beyond the allowed Floor Area Ratio (FAR) will now incur premium charges ranging from ₹3,000 to ₹7,000 per square meter. This new fee structure is a significant hike from previous rates, which is anticipated to elevate overall construction costs.

Key Modifications in the Updated Regulations

• Premium FAR Charges: Additional construction exceeding the designated FAR will incur elevated fees, between ₹3,000 and ₹7,000 per square meter.




• Area-Based Variations:
  
  
  
  
  
  
  • Increased charges will apply in municipal corporation and council areas.
  
  
  
  
  • Approximately 80% of the fee will apply in municipal panchayat and other planning zones.
  
  
  
  
  • Structures located near national or state highways may face even steeper charges.
  
  
  
  
  
  




• Basement & Parking Regulations:

• Reopening a closed basement for parking will incur a fee of ₹1,500 per square meter.




• Using designated parking spaces for unauthorized purposes will result in fines ranging from ₹3 to ₹5 lakh.

Effects on the Public

Experts suggest that these changes will likely increase housing construction costs, particularly in urban and tourist areas. While the government maintains that these adjustments are intended to manage urban expansion, enhance planning, and reduce illegal construction, the financial impact is expected to be felt by both citizens and builders.