Saudi Arabia implements new regulations for residential villas

Riyadh: New regulations allowing residential villas to build additional basement floors and increase building percentages have come into effect in Saudi Arabia. Approved by Minister of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing Majid Al-Hogail, these changes aim to expand residential supply in the Kingdom and are effective from July 15.

The permissible building percentage for ground and first floors of residential villas has been increased from 70% to 75%. The regulations also permit floors in residential villas to be separated into independent housing units, each requiring a parking space within the property boundaries. Additionally, the front wall facing the street can be removed to use the setback area for parking.

Each villa with an area of 400 sq. meters or less must provide one parking space, while larger villas must provide two. The ground floor of multi-story residential buildings can now be used for parking without counting it as an official floor.

Upper floor annexes can increase their housing percentage to 70% and basements can be used for housing if they meet Saudi Building Code requirements for ventilation and lighting. The new guidelines follow international best practices to enhance quality of life, encourage investment and improve the urban landscape.

Existing buildings and those under construction can benefit from the new building percentages and heights, provided safety measures are maintained. The regulations encompass spatial planning, technical specifications and standards for architectural design, structural integrity, electrical systems, plumbing and fire prevention.