🏠 Complete Guide: CDA, LDA, and Local Authority Rules for House Map Approval in Pakistan
Introduction
Building a home in Pakistan begins with house map approval—a crucial step that ensures your construction complies with city laws. Authorities like CDA (Islamabad), LDA (Lahore), and BDA (Bahawalpur) have strict rules. This guide breaks down the process, requirements, common mistakes, and pro tips to help your approval sail through smoothly.
🏢 List of Key Development Authorities
| City | Authority | Website | Avg. Time | Fee (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Islamabad | CDA | cda.gov.pk | 15–30 days | PKR 10,000–25,000 |
| Lahore | LDA | lda.gop.pk | 10–20 days | PKR 12,000–30,000 |
| Bahawalpur | BDA | bda.gop.pk | 10–15 days | PKR 8,000–15,000 |
Note: Fees vary based on plot size and design type.
📋 Documents You’ll Need
Property ownership proof (Registry, Fard, or Allotment letter)
Computerized CNIC copy
Site plan by a certified architect (PEC/PCATP licensed)
Structural engineer’s safety certificate
Soil test (for plots 1 kanal and above)
Signed affidavit for bylaw compliance
📐 Key Building Bylaws (LDA Example for 5 Marla)
| Side | Required Setback |
|---|---|
| Front | 5 ft |
| Back | 3 ft |
| Left/Right | 1.5 ft each |
Setback rules differ by city, plot size, and location (corner/park facing plots may require more).
💡 Avoid These Common Mistakes
❌ Submitting incomplete documentation
❌ Using a non-licensed architect
❌ Ignoring local zone codes (residential, commercial, etc.)
❌ Building beyond plot limits or violating setbacks
❌ Not checking the latest updates in bylaws
✅ Pro Tips for Smooth Approval
Hire a local architect experienced with your city authority
Always request a preliminary check before formal submission
If available, use online submission portals (like CDA’s e-portal)
Keep photocopies + digital scans of all documents
Stay updated: bylaws can change annually
🔄 Rejected? Here’s What to Do
If your map is rejected, the authority issues a remarks sheet. Don’t panic. Do this:
Read the remarks carefully
Ask your architect to revise and highlight changes
Re-submit within the grace period (usually 7–14 days)
📥 Free Download: Approval Checklist
Download a ready-to-print checklist PDF that helps you collect all documents and stay organized.
📎 [Download PDF Now]
📎 [Download PDF Now]
www.scribd.com
🧠 Final Words
Navigating through house map approvals in Pakistan doesn’t have to be confusing. Whether you’re building a small 5 marla home or a 1-kanal house, following this roadmap will save time, money, and frustration.
📞 Need Help with Your House Map?
We create 100% CDA/LDA/BDA-compliant AutoCAD house plans with fast approval assurance.
👉 Contact Our Architect Team
📧 Email:writefor@ nakshanigar.com
