The Ministry of Defence (MoD) on July 03, 2026, issued the Draft Shillong Cantonment Building Bye-laws, 2026.
The following has been stated:
• The draft establishes a comprehensive regulatory framework governing building planning, approval, construction, alteration, occupancy, safety, and maintenance within the Shillong Cantonment. It prescribes standards relating to land use, Floor Space Index (FSI), ground coverage, setbacks, building height, parking, structural design, fire and life safety, accessibility for persons with disabilities, rainwater harvesting, plumbing, electrical services, and compliance with the National Building Code (NBC), 2016.
• The draft also introduces a digital approval process through the e-Chhawani portal, requiring applications, structural safety certificates, supervision certificates, commencement notices, completion notices, and occupancy certificates to be submitted electronically. Occupancy Certificates are made mandatory before any building can be occupied or receive utility connections. Existing buildings remain valid; however, any additions, alterations, reconstruction, or change in use shall comply with the new by-laws.
• Further, the draft lays down provisions for compounding certain unauthorized constructions within prescribed limits while treating encroachments on public land and parking violations as non-compoundable. It also prescribes penalties for violations, including demolition, sealing of premises, prosecution, and action against architects or technical professionals for misconduct or misrepresentation. Provisions relating to unsafe buildings, mandatory inspections, and incentives for road widening, additional parking, and energy-efficient buildings have also been incorporated to promote planned and sustainable development in the Shillong Cantonment.
The objections or suggestions are invited by August 10, 2026.
[Notification no. - S.R.O. 15(E)]
