CDA changes parking rules for commercial buildings in Islamabad

CDA approves new parking policy

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has approved amendments to the Building Control Regulations 2023 during its 10th Board meeting of 2026.

The meeting was chaired by CDA Chairman and Chief Commissioner Islamabad Sohail Ashraf.

Officials said the updated CDA parking rules are designed to make commercial construction easier while addressing technical challenges faced by developers.

The decision mainly affects high-rise commercial buildings planned in the federal capital.

Parking requirement reduced

Under the revised CDA parking rules, developers will now be required to provide one parking space for every 1,000 square feet of covered commercial area.

Previously, builders had to provide one parking space for every 750 square feet.

Officials said this change offers greater flexibility to investors and builders working on commercial projects.

The authority believes the revised policy will encourage new investment while making large commercial developments more practical.

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Why were the rules changed?

According to CDA officials, the previous parking requirements created serious construction challenges.

Many high-rise projects required excavation for up to six basement levels to meet parking requirements.

This significantly increased construction expenses and created engineering concerns related to soil conditions and structural safety.

The authority explained that the updated CDA parking rules are expected to reduce these difficulties without affecting urban planning standards.

Relief for builders and investors

Construction experts say the new policy may lower development costs for commercial buildings.

Developers will no longer need to build as many underground parking levels as before.

Industry representatives believe the revised CDA parking rules could speed up project completion and encourage more commercial investment in Islamabad.

They also expect the changes to make future high-rise developments more financially viable.

Focus on safer construction

CDA officials said the decision is not only aimed at reducing costs but also improving construction safety.

Reducing the need for deep basement excavation can lower engineering risks associated with weak soil conditions.

The authority added that all commercial projects will still have to meet other building safety and planning regulations.

Officials said the revised policy balances development needs with public safety.

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More reforms expected

The Capital Development Authority continues reviewing different regulations to improve Islamabad’s urban development.

Officials indicated that additional reforms may be introduced in the future to simplify construction procedures while maintaining proper planning standards.

Developers have been advised to review the updated Building Control Regulations before submitting new commercial project applications.