The Ministry of Finance and Planning has introduced a comprehensive new set of development control regulations for residential construction in Hulhumalé, published in the Government Gazette and effective today. The ministry issued the regulation under the Urban Planning and Management Act (16/2024), replacing the previous Hulhumalé Planning and Construction Regulation (R-99/2023).
The scope of the new framework marks an immediate and significant shift. Unlike its predecessor, which applied only to Neighborhoods 1, 2, and 3 of Phase 1, the new regulation covers all neighborhoods across Hulhumalé. It also carries stronger legal footing, anchored in the national Urban Planning Act rather than HDC’s internal Articles of Association.
Turning to building height and parking, the regulation introduces stricter requirements for taller structures. Any building exceeding 18.5 meters must dedicate its entire ground floor to parking. The first floor of such buildings must serve non-residential purposes. This replaces the previous requirement of a modest 14-square-meter garage space. Additionally, developers must now provide motorcycle parking proportional to the total number of rooms in the building. For buildings surpassing 16.5 meters, the installation of an elevator becomes mandatory.
On building heights, the regulation raises the ceiling considerably. Buildings may now rise to a maximum of 30.5 meters across most neighborhoods. However, Neighborhood 9 faces a stricter cap of 22 meters due to its proximity to the airport and applicable aviation safety standards.
Regarding commercial operations, the regulation draws firm boundaries for cafes and restaurants. These businesses may no longer place tables, chairs, or canopies beyond their plot boundaries. HDC now holds formal authority to remove any outdoor structures found in violation of these limits. This represents an entirely new layer of restriction not present in the previous regulatory framework.
Beyond structure and commercial use, the regulation also addresses sustainability and infrastructure. Roof terraces must be designed to accommodate solar panel installation. For buildings in Hulhumalé Phase 2, developers must include a dedicated duct for GPON fiber cabling on every floor.
Finally, on enforcement, the HDC will serve as the primary authority responsible for implementing and monitoring compliance with the new rules. Violations will attract penalties and legal action under the Urban Planning and Management Act.