Regulations in the construction industry can be complex, especially when the project falls outside the standard building codes. Fortunately, Dubai Municipality provides a streamlined process for obtaining exceptions on building permits – a crucial service for developers, contractors and consultants dealing with non-conforming construction works. We will do a detailed overview of the process of building permit exceptions in Dubai and see all its requirements.
Building Permit Exceptions in Dubai
Obtaining a new building permit in Dubai is essential to comply with the city’s standards and regulations. Similarly, a building permit exception allows contractors to proceed with construction or modification projects that don’t fully comply with existing regulations. Dubai Municipality assesses these exceptions under specific technical conditions and criteria, ensuring safety and urban harmony are maintained.
In some cases, the building project deviates from the usual codes or standards such as exceeding height limits, modifying structural elements or using unconventional materials. It becomes important to apply for building permit exceptions in Dubai before proceeding.
Who Can Apply?
Building consultants and contractors are eligible to apply for this service.
Required Documents
Applicants need to submit detailed drawings illustrating the requested exception. Make sure these are comprehensive and technically sound, as the approval depends heavily on this documentation.
Step-by-Step: How to Apply
Applicants can apply for a building permit exception through the Build in Dubai Platform. Here’s the process:
- Log In: Access the Dubai Building Permit System and log in with the credentials.
- Submit Documents: Upload the detailed drawings for the exception.
- Receive Feedback: Dubai Municipality will respond with an approval, rejection or a request for amendments.
- Additional Requirements: Applicants may be asked to obtain a valuation certificate from the Dubai Land Department or submit a tenancy contract.
- Confirm Payment: Once approved, confirm the landlord’s willingness to cover the exception fees.
- Pay Fees: Make payment through approved channels.
- Receive Approval: The exception approval will be issued via the Build in Dubai platform.
How Much Does It Cost?
The details for applicable fees during the Dubai building permit exception procedure are as follows:
Application Fees
- Private villa / Investment villa / Multistorey building (up to 7 floors): AED 100
- Industrial / Public building / Multistorey building (more than 7 floors): AED 150
- Floor area ratio building: AED 250
- Knowledge and Innovation Fee: AED 20 (applicable to all applications)
Permit Fee (Resolution No. 10 of 2006):
- Calculated as 30% of land value (as per submission date) ÷ total authorised built-up area × total area used
- Knowledge and Innovation Fee: AED 20
UAE citizens applying for exceptions for their private residence are exempt from all service fees.
Payment Channels and Methods
Applicants can apply for building exceptions by Dubai Municipality through the following channels:
Smart Applications
- Dubai Municipality App
- Dubai Now App
Online
- Dubai Smart Government Portal
Offline
- Al Ansari Exchange (cash or cheque to Al Ansari Exchange)
Payment Methods
- Noqodi
- Direct debit
- Credit card
- Apple Pay / Samsung Pay
- Installment plans via Dubai Municipality (Al Garhoud branch)
Terms and Conditions
The terms and conditions for building code exceptions in Dubai are as follows:
- This service only covers building and construction exceptions, not planning-related issues. For the latter, apply through the Executive Planning Department of Dubai Municipality.
- If the required documents (valuation certificate or tenancy contract) are not submitted and fees are not paid within 6 months of approval, the application will be automatically cancelled.
FAQs
What Is A Building Permit Exception In Dubai?
A building permit exception in Dubai allows construction activities that deviate from standard building regulations under specific conditions approved by Dubai Municipality.
Who Can Apply For A Building Permit Exception In Dubai?
Building consultants and building contractors can apply for building permit exceptions in Dubai.
How Long Does It Take To Get A Building Permit Exception Approved?
The building permit exception application service takes 10 business days.
This is the entire Dubai building permit exception procedure. If your project requires an exception, following the correct process ensures compliance while keeping the vision intact. With a digital-first application system, transparent fee structure and clear eligibility criteria, Dubai Municipality makes it straightforward to secure the approvals you need.
Contractors and consultants can also apply to cancel a building permit in Dubai via the Dubai Municipality website.
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Stay tuned to dubizzle’s property blog to learn how to apply for key real estate documents and more.
