In first step of course correction, govt slashes building permit fees by 60 percent

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: As part of course correction from the election debacle, the government decided to reduce the building permit fee by up to 60% from August 1. The rate of the application fee has also been reduced.

The permit fee for houses in corporation limits has been reduced by up to 60 per cent. The buildings in Panchayats and Municipalities have been reduced at a similar rate. The rate of industrial and commercial buildings is reduced by up to 58 per cent. The new rate will be effective from August 1.

The CPM state leadership earlier instructed the government to reduce the rates the other day after CPI demanded the government expedite the reforms in a joint meeting.

Minister MB Rajesh in a press conference explained the situation that made the government go for these reforms.

“The money acquired from the building permit fee is not coming to the government coffers. To be precise, the government is taking nothing from it. Yet, we are forced to make this reform after receiving flak for no real reason."

The new rates will be retroactive to April 10, 2023. An online mechanism will be set up to refund the excess amount paid.

For example, A 100 sq.m (1076 sq.ft) house is completed without violating the building regulations, but the area increases to 120 sq.m (1291.2 sq. ft). This needs to be regularized and TC is required. If so, three times the permit fee will be charged for the additional area. However now, the new reform will be reflected here as well.

Buildings in corporation premises:

• Up to 80 sq.m (860.8 sq ft)..............15 (no increase)

• Upto 150 sq.m (1614) ................ 50 (100)

• Upto 300 sq.m (3228) ................ 70 (150)