Riyadh: The Ministry of Municipalities and Housing has introduced a new set of technical and regulatory requirements for carports within property boundaries. This initiative is aimed at developing the urban environment, improving architectural design quality, and ensuring safe and organized use of spaces within residential and commercial buildings.
According to Saudi Press Agency, the requirements focus on regulatory standards for constructing carports on private properties. These standards address design, location, and materials used, ensuring disciplined use of facilities and enhancing urban landscape integration. The regulations also aim to reduce violations and irregularities, adhering to the Saudi Building Code (SBC) and universal accessibility standards, including considerations for pedestrian paths and entrances for individuals with disabilities.
The stipulations include space requirements, setbacks, and limits on the projection and height of carports. They prohibit covering sides or using unapproved materials and encroaching on sidewalks or pedestrian pathways. Designs are directed toward visual integration with the architectural style of the building and its surrounding area.
The ministry facilitated the permit issuance process through the "Balady" platform, starting with the submission of a building license or a documented rental contract via the "Ejar" platform. Other measures include plan preparation by an accredited engineering office, review by relevant authorities, and the subsequent issuance of electronic permits. This process aims to simplify procedures and ensure technical compliance.
Several general regulations include placing an identification card on the carport with a code containing permit details, maintaining site cleanliness and sidewalk integrity, standardizing carport designs within a single building, and adhering to regular maintenance. The permit holder bears full legal responsibility for the carport and any obligations arising from its construction, while complying with the accessibility requirements established by the SBC center.
The ministry has granted a 180-day corrective period for existing carports within property boundaries, starting from the date of the technical guide's publication on official platforms. During this period, owners are expected to update the conditions of the carports to meet the approved requirements in accordance with current standards.
The ministry's focus through these stipulations is to enhance the quality of urban organization, achieve a balance between safety requirements and structural functionality, and provide a more organized and secure urban environment, supporting the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.