Ajman - new building regulation

A new Law issued by H H Shaikh Saud bin Saqr Al Qasmi, the Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, will bring in better regulation to the building sector in the emirate.

According to Law No.1 of 2009 for regulation of buildings in the emirate, it will be applicable to all buildings, except those that come under special decree or resolution.

The Law does not permit anybody to construct a building or make additions, or expansion, or partly or wholly demolish it, or make any modifications, whether on the facet or internal divisions, without prior permission from the authorized section of emirate’s municipality.

The law is applicable to a range of topics dealing with buildings, such as designs, construction, architectural standards, specifications, license, additions, expansions, maintenance, safety, and penalties for breaching provisions of the law.

As per the law, the construction permit will remain valid for a period of one year from the date of issuance and will be considered void, if no construction happens on the site within the said period or if the work is stopped for more than six months, without valid reasons. The permit can be renewed within 30 days following expiry.

The Architect is responsible for the safety of the building for ten years after delivery. The Municipality Chairman has the right to instruct the concerned authorities to remove unlicensed caravans, pounds, and makeshift houses when their owners fail to do so after expiry of the grace period given to them.

Based on the Technical Committee recommendations, the Municipality Chairman can also order demolition of any worn-out buildings or facilities that may pose danger to inhabitants and passers-by or harm the environment and public health.

The law will be implemented within a month after its issuance and will be published in the gazette.