What coverage, FAR, setbacks and height limits mean for a GMADA plot in Mohali, the approval steps, and where to confirm the current figures for your plot.
Sources to check
Official sites where you can confirm the current rules. They are listed for reference and do not verify the figures in this article.
This is general guidance, not a legal or planning opinion. Rules change; confirm with GMADA or a licensed architect for your plot.
GMADA Plot Rules in Punjab 2026: Complete Building Guidelines
If you own a plot in Mohali or any GMADA-controlled area, understanding the building rules is essential before starting construction. This guide explains what each rule means and where to confirm the figure that applies to your plot.
What is GMADA?
GMADA (Greater Mohali Area Development Authority) is the development authority for the Greater Mohali region. Its areas include:
- GMADA sectors of Mohali
- Aerocity
- IT City
- GMADA sectors in Kharar
- New Chandigarh (Mullanpur)
Areas under a municipal council, such as the Kharar and Zirakpur councils, follow that council's rules. Check which authority approved your plot's layout before you plan.
Ground Coverage
Ground coverage is the share of the plot the building may cover at ground level. GMADA sets it by plot size: in the commonly cited figures, the permitted percentage falls as plot size rises. A figure of 70% for smaller plots is commonly cited; confirm the current figure in the GMADA building rules applicable to your plot and zone.
Municipal council areas have their own coverage rules, which can differ from GMADA's.
FAR (Floor Area Ratio)
FAR is the total covered area on all floors divided by the plot area. To work out your maximum built-up area:
- Maximum built-up area (sq ft) = plot area (sq yd) × 9 × FAR
For illustration only: with an FAR of 2.0, a 200 sq yard plot would allow 200 × 9 × 2.0 = 3,600 sq ft. FAR values by plot size are commonly cited; confirm the current figure in the GMADA building rules applicable to your plot and zone.
Setback Requirements
Setbacks are the minimum open distances you must leave at the front, rear and sides of the plot. They vary with plot size. Front, rear and side setback distances are commonly cited; confirm the current figure in the GMADA building rules applicable to your plot and zone.
Height Restrictions
GMADA limits building height and the number of floors, and sets conditions for basements and stilt parking. Basements need approval. Maximum height figures are commonly cited; confirm the current figure in the GMADA building rules applicable to your plot and zone.
Building Plan Approval Process
- Building plan prepared and submitted to the GMADA office
- Structural stability certificate from a registered engineer
- Payment of the applicable fees and charges
- Building permit issued
- Construction started within the validity stated on your sanction
Documents Required
Typical documents; GMADA's current checklist for your plot is authoritative:
- Plot allotment letter / Registry
- NOC from GMADA
- Approved building plan
- Structural drawings
- Ownership documents
Penalties for Violations
- Unauthorised construction can be demolished
- Fines for exceeding coverage or FAR
- Completion certificate can be refused
How Taqdeer Builders Helps
Where architectural drawings, structural design and approvals are needed, we coordinate them and name who does each in the quotation.
Contact us: +91-9814-973075 for construction on a GMADA plot.
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only. Rules and regulations may change. Please verify with official sources and consult a legal/property expert before making decisions.