Infrastructure

Map Approval to Be Must for Rural Multi-Storey Buildings in Bihar

  • by- Zaid
  • May 15, 2026
Bihar plans to enforce map approvals for high-rise buildings in rural areas to control chaotic urbanization, with a new regulatory body similar to RERA to manage construction.
Map Approval to Be Must for Rural Multi-Storey Buildings in Bihar

Patna, May 15: Bihar plans to enforce map approvals for high-rise buildings in rural locales to control chaotic urbanization. A newly established regulatory body, akin to RERA, will manage construction activities, compelling builders to obtain authorized plans and place funds in escrow.

Regulatory Framework

The panchayati raj department has almost finalised a new set of rules, which will come into force after approval from the law department, a high-level committee, the state cabinet and the legislature. Once implemented, no multi-storey structure will be allowed in rural areas without an approved building plan. Panchayati raj minister Dipak Prakash said, "Bihar is witnessing rapid urbanisation while unplanned construction activities are also increasing in non-planned areas, leading to violations of building by-laws and causing revenue losses to the government."

RERA-like Authority

Under the proposed framework, a regulatory authority on the lines of the Real Estate Regulatory Authority (RERA) will be set up to approve building plans for multi-storey projects in rural areas. Projects exceeding 500 square metres will have to be registered with the authority. Builders will be required to keep 70 per cent of the money collected from buyers in a separate bank account, which can be used only for the concerned project.

Buyer Protection and Penalties

Delays in possession may attract penalties and compensation with interest. Developers will have to disclose project layouts, approvals and construction progress details. Builders will remain liable for structural defects or construction-related issues for five years after completion, free of cost. Buyers will be able to approach the regulatory body for grievance redressal, ensuring faster dispute resolution. The rules will also mandate clear disclosure of built-up and carpet area to prevent overcharging.

Applicability and Exemptions

The proposed norms will apply only to projects above 500 square metres, with smaller residential units remaining outside its ambit. In rural areas, houses up to two storeys will not require mandatory map approval, while buildings above two floors will need a No Objection Certificate from the designated authority before construction begins.