The Government of Andhra Pradesh introduced the Revised Guidelines for Building Permissions under the Self-Certification Scheme (SCS) 2025 on 13 July 2025. This move aims to accelerate construction activities and improve ease of doing business in the state. The scheme targets safer, inclusive, and sustainable building environments while boosting economic growth and investment.
Objectives of Self-Certification Scheme 2025
SCS 2025 focuses on simplifying building permissions to reduce compliance burdens. It supports deregulation aligned with central government incentives such as the Special Assistance to States for Capital Investment (SASCI) 2025-26. The scheme promotes trust-based approval processes to encourage an investment-friendly environment in Andhra Pradesh.
Delegation of Authority to Licensed Technical Persons
A key feature is the delegation of enforcement powers to Licensed Technical Persons (LTPs) and citizens. LTPs are responsible for submitting building plan applications and verifying documents. This shift reduces bureaucratic delays by empowering technical experts and applicants directly.
Online Building Permission System (OBPS)
The OBPS enables instant scrutiny and approval of building permissions upon fee payment. It allows applicants to start construction immediately after permission. The system operates on trust, eliminating the need for supervisory checks by Town Planning officials for self-certified buildings.
Scope and Applicability of the Scheme
Initially, SCS 2025 applies to non-high-rise residential buildings on plots up to 4,000 square metres. It covers approved layouts, regularised layouts, village sites, and redevelopment projects with prior approvals. The scheme includes white category industries with site areas up to 500 square metres. It is applicable across all Urban Local Bodies and Gram Panchayats within Urban Development Authorities, excluding the capital city area, for sites measuring 300 square metres or more.
Responsibilities of Building Owners and LTPs
Building owners must ensure compliance with approved plans during construction. LTPs must prevent any misrepresentation of facts and ensure plans conform to master plans, zoning rules, and Andhra Pradesh Building Rules 2017. Both parties sign a self-certification proforma affirming the authenticity of submitted documents.
Integration with Existing Regulations
The revised guidelines are incorporated as Chapter XIV into the Andhra Pradesh Building Rules 2017. This integration ensures legal backing and consistency with existing regulatory frameworks while promoting faster and safer construction practices.
Impact on Real Estate and Urban Development
By simplifying permissions and reducing delays, SCS 2025 is expected to stimulate real estate growth and urban development. The scheme encourages investment by providing transparency and reducing procedural hurdles. It aligns with broader efforts to enhance infrastructure and economic development in Andhra Pradesh.
Questions for UPSC:
- Discuss the role of self-certification schemes in improving Ease of Doing Business in state of Indias with suitable examples.
- Critically examine the impact of digital governance tools like Online Building Permission Systems on urban development and regulatory compliance.
- Explain how delegation of authority to technical professionals can affect governance efficiency and accountability in public administration.
- With suitable examples, discuss the challenges and benefits of integrating environmental sustainability into urban construction regulations.
