The Maharashtra government has issued a notification allowing housing societies to build larger yogalayas, fitness centres, recreation centres, and meditation centres within society premises without incurring floor space index (FSI) charges. The state urban development department has increased the permissible area for such leisure components from the earlier 2% to 4% of the total built-up area of the project.
Key Provisions of the Notification
The minimum size for a yogalaya or fitness centre will be 323 square feet. A covered swimming pool is also permitted within the 4% cap as part of the fitness centre. If the area for these utilities exceeds 4%, it will be counted towards FSI, as stated in the notification.
The urban development department issued the government resolution (GR) amending Regulation 31 (1) and sub-regulations 37 (28) and 37 (28A) of the Development Control and Promotion Regulations (DCPR) 2034 for areas under the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC).
Industry Reactions
Sandip Isore, a consultant to the real estate industry, noted that gated communities with 50 to 100 flats are becoming common, and residents desire various facilities within their gates to enhance quality of life. Initially, only clubhouses were provided, but over the last eight to ten years, many recreational activities have been added. Given traffic congestion on city roads, people prefer having these amenities within their society itself. Isore added that residential societies now have clubhouses and fitness centres, and due to the sizable population in gated communities, larger areas are needed. He also highlighted that these facilities are now incorporated in flat sale agreements and RERA requires them to be mentioned in the plan, ensuring transparency and preventing misuse of space.
Ownership and Applicability
The notification specifies that ownership of the yogalaya or fitness centre will rest solely with the society or the apartment owners' association. In larger layouts with an existing or proposed clubhouse, the yogalaya or fitness centre can be constructed within the building, on the podium, or in the basement. Both amenities will be part of the 4% free of FSI component. For office or commercial buildings, the facility is also permitted, but a 100% premium based on the Ready Reckoner Rate (RRR) will be charged.
Benefits for Developers and Residents
Milind Changani, an architect and secretary of PEATA (Practising Engineers, Architects, Town Planners Association), stated that by allowing a larger area free of FSI, the government is promoting a better quality of life with improved amenities within residential premises. This greatly helps smaller developers who can now provide recreational activities like basketball courts without FSI charges. For the first time, commercial buildings can also offer this facility. Changani believes this will enhance the qualitative aspect for residents multifold.
