One of the important building rules is the provision of open spaces. In Tamil Nadu, those buying plots of land must be aware of the Open Space Reservation (OSR). It is an area provided to protect the environment. In urban setting, these spaces are utilised for recreation and other social purposes.
Open Space Reservation: Latest updates
Tamil Nadu building rules revised to create more green space
Building rules in Tamil Nadu are revised to create cities and towns with more green space, wider roads, easy access to public transport, improved parking and streamlined planning. The state government has appointed experts from CEPT Ahmedabad to review the Tamil Nadu Combined Development and Building Rules. The new set of rules will have revised setback limits for high-rise and non-high-rise buildings.
Open Space Reservation for plots in Tamil Nadu
The rising demand for properties owing to the increasing population has given rise to high-rise structures and skyscrapers. Land scarcity has become a major issue as more people move to urban areas. Flats and apartments have emerged as a solution. The developers ensure that they make the most of the available space. At the same time, the importance of open space cannot be overlooked. Green and open areas are necessary for proper ventilation and as a space for people to socialise.
According to the Tamil Nadu Town and Country Planning Act, providing green space on a big plot is necessary to solve the problem and maintain environmental safety. Plots larger than 300 square metre (sqm) are required to have open space. This area is referred to as an Open Space Reserve. The Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority (CMDA) is responsible for regulating the allocation of OSR.
Many people often confuse the terms open space and open space reservation. Open spaces are allocated by the government to create playgrounds, parks, etc. The OSR is applicable on plots and lands. Â
Significance of Open Space Reservation
Due to rapid urbanisation, open spaces have become crucial for meeting commercial and recreational requirements. Town planning department prepares a blueprint while resourcing open spaces. While town planning development acts differ from stat-to-state, private residential property owners must allow open spaces in front and back for lawns and fresh air.
CMDA specifications for Open Space Reservation
Those purchasing land in Tamil Nadu must be aware of the OSR laws and principles. A place 10 metre in dimension or greater and more than 100 square metre in size is needed for an open-space reservation. The owner must guarantee that the space is not utilised for building and is kept for gardening or vegetation.
Key aspects of Open Space Reservation
According to the current standards, open space must account for 10% of the total land area. If there are any intended roads, the owner must provide them to the local government for free through a gift deed. Such locations are not included in the plot while calculating OSR.
At least 10% of each property should be allocated by the owner for open space. However, those with a space between 300 and 10,000 sqm may be excluded.
This is relevant in the absence of any mechanism for reserving free space. This may also be due to physical limitations. The registration department will appraise the property for exemption, and the property owner is required to pay the market value of the comparable property. This sum will be utilised to support environmental initiatives.
An area equal to 10% of the total land should be set aside as OSR if the area is greater than 10,000 square metre. It does not include the space allocated for public highways.
Use of Open Space Reservation
The open areas are allotted to ensure environmental balance and greenery for residents as well as for recreational and social purposes. Parks, playgrounds, and other amenities are developed in these areas. In case of inadequate maintenance, the CMDA can seek land ownership. The land is subsequently turned over to a local entity, such as municipal authorities or the Chennai Corporation, for upkeep.
The CMDA is responsible for maintaining a database of all information on OSR regions and those kept by local governments. Municipal governments should use the available space, such as parks. If there is a delay in acquiring these OSR spaces, they may be encroached on for unlawful parking and other purposes. Thus, the CMDA takes steps to ensure proper usage of the open space reserve.
OSR for land approvals
To obtain layout approvals involves payment of OSR charges. There are specific layouts in a specific category or specifically designated infrastructure project requiring approvals. Thus, one should invest in approved land and stay aware of the latest updates on OSR restrictions and approval authorities.
Housing.com News Viewpoint
Open Space Reservation encourages property developers and owners to allow some space in their properties. The government of Tamil Nadu has made it mandatory for the benefit of people. The owners must bear certain charges. Thus, when investing in plots, one should be aware of the regulations in the state.
FAQs
What is the full form of OSR?
OSR stands for Open Space Reservation.
What is the role of local authorities in managing open reservation land?
When open space reservation land is handed over to the local bodies, they must maintain it. They also need to ensure that parks are developed on the land. Illegal constructions must be avoided.
How is OSR calculated?
OSR is calculated by dividing the total amount of open space (commonly owned on the residential land parcel proposed for development) by the total area of the entire land parcel (proposed for development).
Can CMDA claim ownership of the gifted land under open space reservation?
The CMDA cannot claim ownership of the gifted land under open space reservation. As the land under open space reservation is transferred through gift deed, it will be solely used for the benefit of residents.
What is the penalty for misuse of land under open space reservation?
According to the Tamil Nadu Town and Country Planning Act, the encroachers are liable to restore the OSR to its original state. If orders are not followed within time, the planning authority can take measures to recover the cost of land.
What are the exemption limits of OSR in Tamil Nadu?
Plots with 300 sqm to 10,000 sqm are allowed to get exemption under new rules for OSR.
What is the purpose of OSR?
The OSR rules in Tamil Nadu ensure availability of open spaces. Developers are required to allot 10% of the land as OSR.
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