Andhra Pradesh Revamps SCS to Boost Construction and Real Estate Growth

VIJAYAWADA: The State government of Andhra Pradesh has issued new orders, revising the Self-Certification Scheme (SCS)-2025 under the AP Building Rules, 2017. The primary aim of these revisions is to improve the ease of doing business, expedite approvals, and curb corruption in the building permit process.

Municipal Administration and Urban Development (MAUD) Principal Secretary S Suresh Kumar issued G.O. Ms. No. 120 on Saturday, which supersedes the earlier guidelines from February. The updated rules extend self-certification to white category industries, non-polluting units certified by the Pollution Control Board, with site areas up to 500 square metres. The scheme also applies to non-high-rise residential buildings up to 4,000 square metres.

Previously, Licensed Technical Persons (LTPs) were legally responsible for enforcing the rules and could face criminal charges for any violations. Under the revised scheme, criminal liability has been removed, although administrative action may still be taken in cases of negligence or misrepresentation.

The government has detailed new protocols for applications, inspections, and occupancy under the Online Building Permission System (OBPS). Once a plan is approved online, construction may begin immediately. LTPs are required to upload plinth-level inspection reports within seven days, and occupancy certificates will be issued based on joint inspections.

To ensure transparency, Town Planning officials will conduct random inspections in 10–15% of cases. Any violations may lead to the revocation of permits and the suspension of LTP licenses for up to five years.

MAUD Minister Dr P Narayana welcomed the new rules, stating they would promote growth in AP’s construction and real estate sectors while reducing delays. This move is expected to attract more investors and boost the local economy, making Andhra Pradesh a more attractive destination for real estate and construction projects.

The new rules are part of the government's broader strategy to modernize the construction sector and align it with international standards. By reducing bureaucratic hurdles and ensuring a more streamlined process, the government aims to create a more conducive environment for business and development.