NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF INDIA (2005)

a) All existing features of the site, including all

building with plinth level;

a) Percentage (of slope) = Vertical Rise ×100 ,

Horizontal distance

b) Structures such as walls, walks, steps, roads,

1 ×100

etc;

for example

2 percent

50 m

c) Utilities such as water lines, sewer and storm

water drainage, electrical lines, etc; and

Vertical Rise (1.0 m)

b) Proportion (of slope) =

d) Utility structures like manholes, junction

Horizontal distance

boxes, sewage treatment plant, septic tank,

for example 1 m in 50 m or 1:50

soak pit, water tanks, water treatment plant,

c) Degree of slope, expressed as angle for

transformers and all underground structures

example 10°, 15°, etc.

indicated appropriately.

6.4

Typical Grading Symbols and Abbreviations

Proposed features shall be indicated in firm lines and

existing features in dash.

Symbol

Description

6.2.2

The grading plan should represent:

- -(100)- -

Existing contour

a) General landform concept graphically

— 100 —

Proposed contour

represented with appropriate symbols and

(100.5)

Existing spot elevation

abbreviations (see 6.4).

100.5 (Bold)

Proposed spot elevation

b) Proposed contour lines should be integrated

Catch basin

with existing and proposed elevations within

FFL

Finished floor level

the project site.

FGL

Finished ground level

c) Location of swales and surface water flow,

TW/BW

Top of wall/Bottom of wall

surface and sub-surface soil drainage system

or water harvesting systems.

TK/BK

Top of kerb/Bottom of kerb

d) Location of drainage catchments, areas of

HP/LP

High point/Low point

retention/detention or disposal/outfall point

Invert level

as the case may be.

e) Spot grades on road, walks, and swales

7 PLANTING DESIGN CONSIDERATIONS

including top level and relevant invert levels

Plant materials are a very important component of

of all utilities and utilities structures as

landscape design, and planting design is integral to the

mentioned above; critical spot elevation to be

landscape plan. Designing with plants requires

established (see 6.2.3).

awareness and knowledge of a broad range of aspects

f) Spot elevation of building floor finish level,

including (a) ecology, (b) botany, (c) horticulture,

steps, walls, terraces and other such structures.

(d) aesthetic value, (e) growth and survival, and (f) use

g) Changes in direction or rate of slope.

of plants to fulfil environmental design functions.

6.2.3

Spot Elevations

7.1

Plant Material

Spot elevations shall be used to supplement contours

The major sets of factors that influence the choice of

in the following situations:

plant material are related to the characteristics, both

a) To indicate variations from the normal slope

botanical and physical of plant material and the context

or gradient between contour lines.

in which the plant material is to be used. The inter-

b) To indicate elevations of intersecting planes

relationship of these sets of factors is the basis for

and lines, like corners of buildings, walls,

developing a sound approach to the process of

steps and kerbs.

designing with plants.

c) To indicate elevations at top and bottom of

7.1.1

Physical and Botanical Characteristics of Plant

vertical elements like walls, steps and kerbs.

Material

d) To indicate floor and entrance elevations.

The information on plant material should be available

e) To indicate elevations of high and low points.

in a systematic format to include definition,

f) To indicate top elevations of utilities and

significance and design implications of the following

utilities structure.

aspects:

6.3 Slope Calculation

a) Nomenclature (botanical and trade-name);

Slopes are expressed as follows:

b) Origin, family and natural habitat;

PART 10 LANDSCAPING, SIGNS AND OUTDOOR DISPLAY STRUCTURES — SECTION 1 LANDSCAPE …

c) Growth characteristic and form as a function

7.1.4

Growth Habits of Various Kinds of Vegetation

of habit;

and their Form

d) Physical characteristics, for example bark

The overall physical form of a plant is usually the result

texture, foliage, etc;

of the foliage density and branching pattern. It may

e) Propagation and maintenance; and

also be expressed as the proportionate relations

f) Use in landscape design.

between height and canopy spread. The latter is direct

expression of growth habit.

7.1.2

Vegetation Types (Evergreen and Deciduous)

A number of classifications of tree by their overall form

Some examples of the functional implications of using

exist, but it is almost impossible to have a variety

evergreen and deciduous plant material for specific

according to regional conditions. The following

situations are:

classification into basic types may be useful:

a) Evergreen trees for:

Trees of fastigiated or columnar habit —

1) places requiring shade throughout the

Examples of trees of this type are:

year,

Casurina equisitifolia (Beet-wood)

2) strong visual screening,

Grevillea robusta (Silver oak)

3) part of windbreak or shelter planting,

Polyathia longifolia (Ashok)

and

Populus species (Poplar).

4) areas where leaf litter is to be discouraged.

Though the branching pattern of each is

b) Deciduous trees for:

different, the overall shape is similar.

1) greater visual variety,

Tall trees with broad canopy — Examples of

2) partial visual barrier,

trees of this type are:

3) areas where under-planting is to be

Dalbergia sissoo (Sheesham)

encouraged (for example grass),

Tamarindus indica (Imli)

4) emphasis on branching and flowering

Terminalia arjuna (Arjun).

pattern, and

The canopy shape does not fit into any

5) areas where shade is not required

specific geometrical category.

throughout the year.

Trees of spreading habit — Examples of trees

7.1.3

Growth Rate and Age of the Vegetation

of this type are:

Growth rate is directly related to the life-span of a tree

Delonix regia (Gulmohar)

and slower growing trees have a life-span extending

Lagerstromia flosreginae (Pride of India)

to hundreds of years. The fast growing trees to

Pithecolobium saman (Rain Tree).

the exclusion of slower growing varieties is not

Though these trees vary greatly in size, their

recommended. Landscapes are developed to sustain

basic form is similar.

future generations; slow growing long lived native trees

Trees of weeping habit — Examples of trees

shall be emphatically included in all major planting

of this type are:

schemes, specially those related to institutional

Callistemon lanceolatus (Bottle brush)

campuses and large urban development. However, fast

Salix babylonica (Weeping willow).

growing species do have a limited role, and are

appropriate in situations where:

The above classification is helpful in choosing various

combinations of the above types to achieve desired

a) Quick effects are required, for example in

function and visual objectives.

windbreaks and shelterbelts.

b) Immediate results with regards to stabilization

7.1.5

Foliage Characteristics of Plant Material

of soil, etc are necessary, as for example, in

Visual effects imparted by vegetation, for example, the

soil conservation schemes.

perceived visual textures of plant forms depend on:

c) As ‘nurse plants’ to protect slower growing

sensitive species when necessary.

a) Leaf size and shape — Examples of plants

with large leaves and bold foliage texture are:

The slower growing species would generally be

Alstonia scholaris (Chattin Saptporni)

appropriate in situations where sustained environmental

Delonix regia (Gulmohar)

benefits are required such as roadside planting,

Jacaranda miosaefolia (Nili Gulmohar)

campuses, townships, industrial areas, and other public

landscapes.

Plumeria acutifolia (Temple Tree)

NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF INDIA

Pterospermum acerifolium (Kanak

a) Season,

Champa).

b) Density and distribution of flowers on the

Leaf shape can also determine the appearance

plant,

of the foliage of the plant, as for example:

c) Botanical characteristics of flowers (for

example single/cluster, etc),

Acacia auriculaeformis (Australian

Black wood) — Long narrow leaves

d) Colour, and

Callistemon lanceolatus (Bottle Brush)

e) Presence or absence of foliage during

— Narrow leaves giving a feathery

flowering period.

appearance

7.1.6.2

For the purpose of understanding the visual

Polyalthia longifolia (Ashok) — Long

effect of flowers, tree species may be divided into two

narrow leaves

types:

Salix babylonica (Weeping willow) —

Narrow leaves giving a feathery

a) Trees on which flowers appear in profusion

appearance.

and therefore have a very strong visual

impact, for example Delonix regia, Cassia

Leaf texture — The textural appearance of a

fistula, Lagerstroemia flosreginae.

plant is the result of the play of light and shade

b) Those on which flowers are less profuse, or

on the foliage. Plants with larger leaves

perhaps last for a shorter period and visual

generally appear bolder in texture than smaller

impact is more subtle, for example Thespesia

leaves plants as the areas of light and

spp., Bauhinia spp., etc.

shade are larger and therefore more clearly

differentiated.

An additional consideration when choosing shrubs for

Leaf and foliage colour — Most trees in India

their flowering quality is the visual appearance of the

have foliage in varying shades of green with

flowers themselves, as shrubs are usually seen from

variations in colour at the time of leaf fall and

quite close. Distinctive flowers are those of

at the period when the tree is newly in leaf,

a) Beleperone guttata (Shrimp plant),

when the leaves are fresh and much lighter in

b) Hibiscus rosa-sinensis (Clinex hibiscus),

colour. Examples are:

c) Jasminum sambac (Chameli),

Lagerstroemia speciosa (Jarul) —

d) Tabernaemontana coronaria (Cape jasmine),

Leaves acquire reddish tinge before

and

falling

e) Thevetia peruviana (Yellow oleander).

Polyalthia longifolia (Ashok), Delonix

regia (Gulmohar), Erythrina indica

7.1.6.3

The olfactory characteristics, that is, odour, of

(India coral tree), etc — Leaves turn

flowers may be an added benefit of flowering plants.

yellow before falling

Flowers with distinctive scent include those of Har-

Ficus, intectoria

(Pilkhan) Mangifera

singar (Nyctanthes arbor-tristis), Chameli (Jasminum

indica (Mango) etc — Young leaves have

pubescens), Raat Ki Rani (Cestrum nocturnum), etc.

reddish tinge.

7.1.6.4

Flowering characteristics of plant material may

Foliage density and distribution — An

be classified as per the following format:

important consideration is the way in which

particular kinds of vegetation are perceived.

Botanical

Characteristics

Seasonal

Visual

Tree masses are usually seen from greater

name

of flower

duration

impact

distance than shrub areas; foliage texture of

different distinctive kinds of trees growing

together has to be markedly distinctive

for individual species to be recognizably

7.1.7

Growth Requirement of Plant Material

apparent. In shrub areas subtle differences in

Information about growth requirements of plant

foliage texture may suffice for creating the

material applicable in landscape design pertains to the

required visual effect.

ability of particular plants to survive in specific

environmental situations. These environmental

7.1.6

Flowering Characteristics of Plant Material

conditions may arise from a number of aspects as given

7.1.6.1

Important considerations while classifying

in 7.1.7.1 to 7.1.7.4. Capacity of plants to grow in

plant material according to flowering characteristics

cultivated situations is related to the environmental

are as follows:

conditions obtaining in their natural habitat.

PART 10 LANDSCAPING, SIGNS AND OUTDOOR DISPLAY STRUCTURES — SECTION 1 LANDSCAPE …

7.1.7.1

Soil conditions

plant species is therefore not very strictly limited by

the existing environmental conditions. On larger scale

Physical as well as chemical properties of the available

schemes, such as very large parks, campuses and

soil are important. These may or may not be amenable

townships, this kind of intensive maintenance may not

to change, they would therefore affect the choice of

be possible. The process of choosing plants shall

plant material considerably. Physical properties include

therefore respond to the existing environmental

consideration of light (for example sandy) and heavy

conditions and also in such cases the choice of plant

(for example clayey) soils, and their structure.

material is restricted by these conditions and suitable

Chemical properties pertain to the presence or absence

species become limited. The type of treatment adopted,

of nutrients and salts; soil, alkalinity or acidity. A

as given below, may also serves as a guide to the degree

preliminary soil analysis is essential for implementing

of maintenance required:

effective planting schemes.

a) Low

The

lowest

degree

7.1.7.2

Availability and quality of water

Maintenance maintenance is usually possible

The water requirement may be derived by data of

in areas treated with native

humidity and rainfall of plants natural habitat. The

species of trees only.

water table of the area where the plantation is to be

A slightly higher degree is

done has a crucial bearing on the design with plants as

necessary where native shrubs

well as a financial implication for reduced maintenance

are also used, as these may

if planted appropriately.

require pruning.

7.1.7.3

Availability of sunlight

b) Medium

Areas treated with a mixture of

native and exotic trees.

The growth rate of plants are directly related to sunlight

Exotic shrubs and trees.

availability; such as plants that require (a) full sunlight,

c) High

Exotic shrubs and ground

(b) partial sunlight, (c) predominantly shade, and

covers.

(d) complete shade.

Lawns and maintained grass

7.1.7.4

Quality of air

areas.

Growth may be affected by chemical pollutants such

Annual flowers and special

schemes.

as sulphur dioxide or physical pollution such as dust.

Certain plants have the ability to withstand pollution,

such plants are imperative for industrial areas, roads,

7.2

Functional Aspects of Design with Plants

highways, etc.

Plant materials in landscape design may be used to:

7.1.8

Maintenance

a) improve existing environmental conditions

with respect to soil, drainage, microclimate,

The success of a designed landscape depends upon the

air pollution;

growth of vegetation over an extended period of time;

therefore maintenance of landscape is also a design

b) create a designed physical environment

component. Maintenance needs and practices in any

through the organization of open space;

given situation arises out of the inter-relationship

and

between the growth requirements of plant material

c) interpret and express the contemporary

chosen and the environmental conditions existing on

understanding of the man-nature relationship,

site.

that is, design with plants on an ecological

rather than horticultural basis.

The likely degree of maintenance should be assessed

based on the following:

7.2.1

Choosing of Plant Material

a) Scale of the design project,

Two sets of factors influence the choice of plant

b) Financial and manpower resource,

material in landscape design. One relates to information

about plant material itself, that determines the

c) Availability of manures,

suitability of plant material from the point of view of

d) Future intensity of site, and

growth requirements of plant material, and physical

e) Environmental conditions.

characteristics of the plant material. The second relates

In small scale projects such as gardens and small parks,

to the situation for which a planting proposal has to be

the natural environmental conditions can be changed

made that pertains to the context in which the plant

and maintained by management practices such as

materials have to be used. Considerations of scale (that

irrigation and application of fertilisers. The choice of

is, regional, local or very small scale situations), the

NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF INDIA

existing environmental conditions, and functions which

c) Shade,

the plant material has to fulfill are important. Also the

d) Habitat,

level of maintenance which is likely to be kept up, has

e) Enclosure,

to be considered which is specially important on very

f) Direction and framing views,

large sites. The biological history and ecological need

g) Screening,

of exotic plant should be studied prior to introduction

in the landscape schemes to avoid the hazard of the

h) Visual relief, and

species that may become invasive.

Ornamental.

The factors determining choice of plant materials may

NOTE — For functions of plants/shrubs to reduce noise,

be thus summarized as follows:

3.6 of Part 8 ‘Building Services, Section 4 Acoustics,

Sound Insulation and Noise Control’ may be referred.

a) Environmental conditions existing on site —

7.2.3.2

Shrubs

These include climatic, soil characteristics,

water table, etc.

The functions are similar to those of trees. Shrubs may

b) Functions which plant material has to fulfill

be used together with trees to reinforce the functions,

in specific situations on a given site — These

for example, noise barrier, shelter belts, enclosures,

may be either environmental functions

etc.

(pertaining to improvement of soil conditions,

Other forms in which shrubs may be used are:

modification or microclimate, etc) or design

functions relating to creating spaces

a) Hedges — These require regular maintenance

enclosure, framing views, providing visual

b) Shrubbery — Here plants are allowed to retain

relief, etc.

their natural shape; they therefore require little

c) Physical characteristics and growth

maintenance.

requirements of plant material — The former

Shrubs provide barriers, which may either be visual or

include foliage density, foliage texture, leaf

physical (hedges). Barriers may be required in a range

size and shape, flower colour, rooting

of situations, for example they may be only for defining

characteristics, etc. The latter include

space, or they may be required for security and have

moisture requirements, whether the plant

to be, therefore, necessarily impenetrable.

grows in sunny or shaded conditions, etc.

7.2.3.3

Ground cover

7.2.2

Methodology of Design with Plants

Ground cover plants are those which naturally grow

The process for designing with plants on a given site

to a very low height. Some of the uses for which they

condition may be as per the format given below:

may be used are:

Zone

Characteristics

Functions

Form

Species

Remarks

a) Stabilizing soil on steep slopes such as

chosen

embankments.

b) As a low maintenance substitute for grass

(where the surface is not to be used).

Plant material used in landscape design may be broadly

c) For providing variety in surface treatment.

classified as:

d) Contrast with paving materials, for example

to soften rigid lines of paving.

Tree

Large

e) As a subtle means of demarcating space, as

Medium

for example, in places where tall plants would

Small

be visually intrusive.

Shrub

Tall

f) In combination with other plants to provide

Low

contrast or harmony in form.

Ground cover

Very low shrubs less than a

300 mm high

7.2.3.4

Climbers

Certain climbers because of their spreading habits may

7.2.3

Functions of Plant Material

also be used as ground cover (for example Asparagus

7.2.3.1

Trees

spp.) Climbers are useful for shading exposed walls

from direct sunlight. They may also be used for

Trees perform the following functions:

stabilizing soil on embankments (for example, Ficus

a) Protecting soil,

stipulata, Ipomea biloba). On sites where a high degree

b) Modifying microclimate,

of security makes fencing necessary, climbers and

PART 10 LANDSCAPING, SIGNS AND OUTDOOR DISPLAY STRUCTURES — SECTION 1 LANDSCAPE …

spreading plants like Bougainvillea species, may be

yield extends to a distance of 20 times the

trained on boundary wall.

height of the belt, with the maximum effect

being observed 10 times the height of the tree

7.3 Planting for Shelter and Soil Conservation

belt, on the leeward side.

The use of vegetation for controlling wind is widely

7.3.2

Wind Erosion

recognized as an effective way of conserving soil and

reducing erosion by wind. Vegetation may therefore

Some of the basic functions of windbreaks and

be used for modifying the microclimate, by obstructing,

shelterbelts in arid and semi-arid areas are to conserve

guiding, deflecting or filtering wind current.

soil and reduce erosion by wind (see 7.3). The latter is

a natural phenomenon in and lands having very little

Vegetation areas designed to fulfill these general

rainfall (125 mm-250 mm) and in areas adjoining a

functions are usually classified as windbreakers and

river, lake or sea. Wind erosion is a serious problem in

shelterbelts. Windbreaker is grown protective planting

areas where the ground is virtually bare and devoid of

around gardens and orchards. Windbreakers generally

vegetation.

consist of single or double row of trees. Shelterbelt

provides an extensive barrier of trees with several rows

Factors which influence the degree and kind of wind

of trees. Plant species are chosen with particular regard

erosion are as follows:

to their physical and growth characteristics, and their

a) Features of wind — Speed, direction,

effectiveness in achieving the desired results. Both

temperature, humility, burden carried, etc.

windbreakers and shelterbelts have considerable visual

b) Character of surface — Rough or smooth

impact in the landscape in which they are situated, they

plant cover, obstruction, temperature, etc.

therefore need to be designed so that they make a

c) Topography — Flat, undulating broken,

positive visual and aesthetic contribution to their

etc.

environment.

d) Character of soil — Texture, organic matter,

7.3.1

Function

moisture content, etc.

Windbreakers and shelterbelts fulfill essential micro-

7.3.2.1

Techniques for control of wind erosion

climatic functions in rural and urban environments.

The principal method of reducing surface velocity

Benefits accruing from plantation of shelter planting

of wind, upon which depends the abrasive and

may be as follows:

transportation capacity of wind, is by vegetation

a) Reduction in wind velocity resulting in the

measures. Vegetation methods are found to be most

arrest of movements of sand and soil

effective in the form of windbreaks and shelterbelts.

particles.

In aerodynamic terms, these provide protection as

b) Prevention of soil erosion.

follows:

c) Modification of micro-climate; moderation of

a) Sheltered zone on the leeward side extends

change in air temperature.

to approximately 15-30 times the height of

d) Protection of crops from being blown by high

the belt.

winds.

b) A dense belt provides greater shelter

e) Protection of livestock.

immediately to leeward side but the sheltered

f) Reduction in evaporation of soil moisture.

area is not as extensive as when a more

Increase in soil moisture content varies from

permeable zone of vegetation is provided.

3 percent to 7.8 percent. Water loss due to

c) Porosity is important in the effectiveness of

evaporation is lessened.

shelterbelt and proper selection of tree species

g) Increase in soil moisture due to greater

is necessary. Porosity near ground level is

dewfall in sheltered areas has been found to

desirable.

be 200 percent higher than on exposed

d) Effectiveness of shelter planting depends

ground; heaviest dew fall is over a distance

more on height and permeability than on

of 2 to 3 times the height of the shelterbelt.

width. The width influences the general

h) Beneficial effect on growth of plants that are

microclimate but above a certain minimum

affected by high winds.

width, it does not effect greater reduction in

wind velocity.

Extensive shelterbelts may also be used to

augment the supply of fuel in rural areas.

Protection obtained varies in relation to height (H) of

k) The zone of influence of shelterbelt on crop

shelterbelts, as given below:

NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF INDIA

7.3.4

Management

Distance

Wind Reduced by

(in percent)

Shelterbelts should be regarded as living groups of

trees to be managed in perpetuity and the following

shall be taken into consideration for management

thereof:

10H

a) Thinnings are limited to a strict minimum.

b) Cutting is done individually by single tree

This indicates that it is better to have several

selection method.

windbreaks 5H to 6H apart rather than large forest

c) Continuous cultivation may be required in

stands with wide open spaces in between.

areas with scanty rainfall.

7.3.3

Profiles

d) If individual trees do not survive, they should

be replaced immediately to avoid gaps in the

A belt which rises and falls abruptly on windward and

vegetation belt. The shelterbelt should be

leeward sides is said to be more effective. Smaller trees

protected from cattle, either by fencing or

and shrubs should occupy the inter-spaces between the

other means, specially in the early stages.

tall tree.

NOTE — Some authorities maintain that triangular section of

The location of shelterbelt may be related to local

shelterbelt planting is more effective.

features such as public and private road networks,

buildings, irrigation and water conservation works and

The depth of the shelterbelt should be approximately

methods soil management practice (contour bunding,

ten times its height. This is, however, only a thumb

contour cultivation etc). Careful choice of site will

rule. Much lesser widths of 20 m to 30 m have also

provide maximum protection to adjacent land and give

been found to be useful in particular situations; 15 m

shelter and shade.

should be considered as minimum width.

The application of the concept of shelterbelts to

Apart from factors such as climate, soil, fast rate of

landscape planning and design may be effective in

growth, one of the more significant considerations in

the creation of landscape structure of very large

choosing species for shelter planting is the possibility

developments at the regional scale, or townships or

of a particular species serving the dual role of wood-

campuses. Shelterbelts can also be established in

production (for fuel, fodder) as well as shelter.

association with, or instead of road side planting. This

7.3.3.1 Spacing of plants in windbreaks and shelterbelts

itself creates a distinctive landscape pattern. The

advantage of using native species in shelter planting

Windbreaks usually consist of a single or double row

are:

of trees planted at 0.7 m to 1.5 m according to species.

Normally, one year old trees are used. As the roots of

a) New development is merged into the existing

tree extend for some distance beyond the rows in which

landscape. The original character of the

they are planted, the same should be taken into account

landscape is therefore not obtruded upon.

while planting windbreakers. The most common layout

b) The shelterbelt is a component of land

where shelter planting is part of an extensive planned

management (previous waste or barren land

programme, is that of tree belts arranged in a

is conserved).

chessboard pattern, each field being-protected from

c) Additional habitat for wildlife are brought into

every side. This pattern gives full protection to all the

existence.

fields, provided that the right distance between the

fields has been chosen. Efficient protection is achieved

7.3.5

Species-suitable for wind breaks are:

if belts are separated by a distance of not more than 20

a) For Dry and Arid Regions

times the height of the trees. A considerable mixture

Acacia auriculiformis (Australian Blackwood)

of species is recommended so as to compensate for

Ailanthus excelsa (Maharukh)

different rates of growth and also to achieve variety in

the form of crowns.

Albilzia lebbeck (Siris)

Azadiracta indica (Neem)

7.3.3.2

Within shelterbelts, close spacing of tree is the

Casuarina equisetifolia (Beef-wood)

general practice. The recommended spacing for shrubs

Dalbergia sissoo (Sisham)

is 1 m and for tree such as Casuarina and Grevellia

Eugenia jambolana (Jamun)

robusta (Silver Oak) 2.5 m. Spacing between rows

Grevillea robusta (Silver oak)

should be 2.3 m to 3 m to enable mechanized

cultivation. Five rows of tree and shrubs are considered

Peltophorum ferrugineum (Cooper pod)

necessary for protection.

Tamarindus indica (Imli)

PART 10 LANDSCAPING, SIGNS AND OUTDOOR DISPLAY STRUCTURES — SECTION 1 LANDSCAPE …

Pongamia glabra (Indian beech)

b) Evergreen trees are found to be more

Tamarix articulata (Tamarisk)

effective.

b) For Coastal Area

c) The species chosen must be resistant to

Anacardium occidentale (Cashu)

pollutants, particularly in the early stages of

their growth.

Ailanthus malabarica (Alston)

Cassuarina equisetifolia (Beef-wood)

The following species may be examined for their likely

Pongamia glabra (Indian beech)

potential for pollution control:

Sesbania aculeate (Sesban)

Acacia arabica (Babul)

Thevetia peruvian (Yellow oleander)

Citrus species

Thespesia populnea (Indian Tulip)

Dyospyros species

Vitex negundo (Sephali)

Ficus bengalensis (Banyan)

7.4 Air Pollution Control by Plants

Ficus religiosa (Peepal)

Lilium spp. (Lily)

Air pollution may be caused by areas or point sources

Polyalthia lotigifolia (Ashok)

such as cities, industrial areas, factories or by linear

Tamarindus indica (Imli)

sources such as highways. Vegetation buffers can

Thuja occidentalis (Cedar)

minimize the build-up of pollution levels in urban

Prosopis Juliflora (Mesquite)

areas, by acting as pollution sinks.

Zizypus jujuba (Jujuba), etc.

Studies have establised that air pollution, smoke and

sulphur dioxide leads to an exacerbation of chronic

Filtering of pollutants is most effective when plants

respiratory diseases and they are linked to lung cancer,

are close to the source of pollution. The design of

pnemonia, tuberculosis, chest disease in children,

shelterbelts against pollution is similar to those for

stomach cancer and cardiovascular diseases. Lead from

protection from wind. They should be permeable to

vehicle exhausts may have an adverse effect on mental

encourage air turbulence and mixing within the belt.

health of children, asbestos from disintegrating clutch

There should be no large gaps. The profile should be

and brake linings has been considered as a causal factor

rough and irregular and should present a tall vertical

in lung cancer.

leading edge to the wing. Spaces should be left within

the shelterbelt to allow gravity settlement of particles.

7.4.1

Effect of Plants

7.4.3

Applications

Plant leaves function as efficient gas exchange systems.

Their internal structure allows rapid diffusion of water-

Air pollution shelterbelts may be used to protect

soluble gases. These characteristics allow the plant to

sensitive land uses from air pollution. For instance

respire and photosynthesise, and they can also remove

school playgrounds, children play area and residential

pollutant from the air. Some of the beneficial results

estates close to major roads may be so protected.

of plantations may be:

Shelterbelt protection may also be provided for

hospitals, institutions, etc, where the vegetation may

a) They are good absorbers of sulphur dioxide.

also be a visual screen and a partial noise barrier.

b) Parks with trees have an SO₂ level lower than

Vegetation may also be used where the existing means

city streets.

of pollution control have proved inadequate.

c) Roadside hedges can reduce traffic generated

air borne lead, on leeward side.

8 SPECIFICATIONS FOR PLANTING WORKS

d) Heavy roadside planting in the form of

The requirements relating to plant materials and other

shelterbelts can result in a reduction in

materials; execution of work of tree planting, shrub

airborne lead.

planting and grassing; maintenance; etc shall be as

e) Complete dust interception can be achieved

given in 8.1 to 8.6. The contractor shall furnish all

by a 30 m belt of trees. Even a single row of

materials, labour and related items necessary to

trees may bring about 25 percent reduction

complete the work indicated on drawing and specified

in airborne particulate.

herein and shall carry out maintenance of the premises

for 12 months after completion of the work or as

7.4.2

Choosing Plants

specified by the landscape architect.

The three main criteria for selection of plants may be:

8.1

Materials

a) Tree, shrubs should have a dense foliage with

8.1.1

Plant Materials

a large surface area, because leaves absorb

pollutants.

Plant materials shall be well formed and shaped true

NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF INDIA

to type, and free from disease, insects and defects such

in some other way which should not cause any

as knots, windburn, injuries, abrasion or disfigurement.

damage to roots.

All plant materials shall be healthy, sound, vigorous,

8.1.5

Condition

free from disease, insect pests, or their eggs, and shall

have healthy, well-developed root systems. All plants

Trees and shrubs shall be substantially free from pests

shall be hardy under climatic conditions similar to those

and diseases, and shall be materially undamaged. Torn

in the locality of the project. Plants supplied shall

or lacerated roots shall be pruned before dispatch. No

conform to the names listed on both the plan and the

roots shall be subjected to adverse conditions, such as

plant list. No plant material will be accepted if branches

prolonged exposure to adverse conditions, such as

are damaged or broken. All material shall be protected

prolonged exposure to drying winds or subjection to

from sun and adverse weather until planted. Nursery

waterlogging, between lifting and delivery.

stock shall be inspected and approved by the landscape

8.1.6

Marking

architect and the horticulturist/botanist shall do the

botanical authenticity of the selected species.

Each specimen of tree and shrub, or each bundle, shall

be legibly labelled with the following:

All plants shall conform to the requirements specified

in the plant list, except those plants larger than specified

a) Its name.

may be used if approved, but use of such plants shall

b) Name of the supplier, unless otherwise

not increase the contract price. If the use of the larger

agreed.

plant is approved, the spread of roots or ball of earth

c) Date of dispatch from the nursery.

shall be increased in proportion to the size of the plant.

Plants shall be delivered with legible identification

8.2

Execution

labels.

8.2.1

Fine Grading

The minimum acceptable size of all trees after

Grades will be smooth and even on a uniform plane

prunning, with branches in normal positions, will

without abrupt changes or pockets and slope away from

conform to the measurement specified in the bill

the buildings. The nominated landscape contractor will

of quantities unless stated otherwise. Caliper

verify the surface drainage of planting areas and notify

measurement will be taken at a point on the trunk 1.0 m

the landscape architect of any discrepancies,

above natural ground. All trees supplied shall have

obstructions or other conditions considered detrimental

terminal shoots. All specimen trees shall have a

to proper execution of the work and plant growth.

minimum crown spread of not less than half the size

of the overall height.

8.2.2

Landscape work will be tied to the existing

condition such as existing trees palms, landscape

8.1.2

Topsoil (Good Earth) with pH Range between

features, utility lines, pavement kerbs, etc. Finished

6.5 to 7.5

grade will bear proper relationship to such control. The

Topsoil or good earth shall be a friable loam; typical

nominated landscape contractor shall adjust all works

of cultivated top soils of the locality contains at least 2

as necessary to meet the conditions and fulfill the

percent of decayed organic matter (humus). It shall be

intention of the drawings.

taken from a well-drained arable site. It shall be free

After initial settlement the finish grade will be:

of sub-soil, stones, earth clods, sticks, roots or other

objectionable extraneous matter or debris. It shall

a) Turf : 20 mm lower than adjacent walks/

contain no toxic material. No topsoil shall be delivered

kerbs.

in a muddy condition.

b) Shrubs and Ground covers : 40 mm lower

than adjacent walks/kerbs.

8.1.3

Fertilizer

Prior to planting operation, the contractor will ensure

Dry farm yard manure shall be used. Measurement shall

all planting areas free of weeds, debris, rocks over

be in stacks, with 8 percent reduction for payment. It

25 mm in diameter and clumps of earth that do not

shall be free from extraneous matter, harmful bacteria

break up.

insects or chemicals.

8.1.4

Root System

8.3

Tree Planting

The root system shall be conducive to successful

8.3.1

Trees should be supplied with adequate

transplantation. Where necessary, the root-ball shall

protection as approved. After delivery, if planting is

be preserved by support with hessian or other suitable

not to be carried out immediately, balled plants should

material. On soils where retention of a good ball is

be placed cheek to cheek and the ball covered with

not possible, the roots should be suitably protected

sand to prevent drying out. Bare rooted plants can be

PART 10 LANDSCAPING, SIGNS AND OUTDOOR DISPLAY STRUCTURES — SECTION 1 LANDSCAPE …

heeled in by placing the roots in a prepared trench and

the clear stem of the tree, driven 600 mm to

covering them with earth which should be watered in

900 mm into the soil.

to avoid air pockets round the roots.

b) Two stakes as above driven firmly on either

side of the tree with cross-bar to which the

8.3.2

Digging of Pits

stem is attached (suitable for small bare-

Tree pits shall be dug a minimum of three weeks prior

rooted or balled material).

to backfilling. The pits shall be 1 200 mm in diameter

c) A single stake driven in at an angle 45^oand

and 1 200 mm deep. While digging the pits, the topsoil

leaning towards the prevailing wind, the stem

up to a depth of 300 mm may be kept aside, if found

just below the lowest branch being attached

good (depending upon site conditions), and mixed with

to the stake (suitable for small bare-rooted or

the rest of the soil. If the soil is bad below, it shall be

balled material).

replaced with the soil mixture as specified further

herein. If the soil is normal it shall be mixed with

The end of stake should be pointed and the lower 1 m

manure; river sand shall be added to the soil if it is

to 1.2 m should be coated with non-injurious wood

heavy.

preservative allowing at least 150 mm above ground

level.

8.3.3

Flooding of Pits to Reduce Air Pockets

8.3.6

Tying

The soil backfilled, watered through and gently pressed

down, a day previous to planting, to make sure that it

Each tree should be firmly secured to the stake so as to

may not further settle down after planting. The soil

prevent excessive movement. Abrasion shall be

shall be pressed down firmly by treading it down,

avoided by using a buffer, rubber or hessian, between

leaving a shallow depression all round for watering.

the tree and stake. The tree should be secured at a point

just below its lowest branch, and also just above ground

8.3.4

Planting

level; normally two ties should be used for tree. These

No tree pits shall be dug until final tree positions have

should be adjusted or replaced to allow for growth.

been pegged out for approval. Care shall be taken that

8.3.7

Watering

the plant sapling when planted is not buried deeper

than in the nursery, or in the pot. Planting should not

The contractor should allow for the adequate watering

be carried out in waterlogged soil.

in all newly planted trees and shrubs immediately after

planting and shall, during the following growing

Trees should be planted up to the original soil depth;

season, keep the plant material well watered.

the soil marks on the stem is an indication of this and

it should be maintained on the finished level, allowing

8.4

Shrub Planting in Planters and Beds

for setting of the soil after planting. All plastic and

other imperishable containers should be removed

8.4.1

All areas to be planted with shrubs shall be

before planting. Any broken or damaged roots should

excavated, trenched to a depth of 750 mm, refilling

be cut back to sound growth.

the excavated earth after breaking clods and mixing

with manure in the ratio 8:1 (8 parts of stacked volume

The bottom of the planting pit should be covered with

of earth after reduction by 20 percent; 1 part of stacked

50 mm to 75 mm of soil. Bare roots should be spread

volume of manure after reduction by 8 percent).

evenly in the planting pit; and small mound in the centre

of the pits on which the roots are placed will aid an

Tall shrubs may need staking: which shall be provided

even spread. Soil should be placed around the roots,

if approved by the landscape architect depending upon

gently shaking the trees to allow soil particles to shift

the conditions of individual plant specimen.

into the root system to ensure close contact with all

For planting shrubs and ground cover shrubs in

roots and to prevent air pockets. Back fill soil should

planters, good earth shall be mixed with manure in

be firm as filling proceeds, layer by layer, care being

proportion as above and filled in planters.

taken to avoid damaging the roots.

Positions of shrubs to be planted should be marked

8.3.5

Staking

out in accordance with the planting plan. When shrubs

Newly planted trees shall be held firmly although not

are set out, precautions should be taken to prevent root

rigidly by staking to prevent a pocket forming around

drying. Planting holes 400 mm in diameter and

the stem and newly formed fibrous roots being broken

400 mm deep should be excavated for longer shrubs.

by mechanical pulling as the tree rocks.

Polythene and other non-perishable containers should

be removed and any badly damaged roots carefully

The main methods of staking shall be:

pruned. The shrubs should then be set in holes so that

a) A single vertical stake, 900 mm longer than

the soil level, after settlement, will be at the original

NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF INDIA

soil mark on the stem of the shrub. The hole should be

or dying back of grass due to neglect of watering

back-filled to half its depth and firmed by treading.

specially for seeding out of normal season shall be the

The remainder of the soil may then be returned and

responsibility of the contractor.

again firmed by treading.

Any shrinkage below the specified levels during the

contract or defects liability period shall be rectified at

8.5 Grassing

the contractor’s expense. The contractor shall exercise

8.5.1

Preparation

care in the use of rotary cultivator and mowing

machines to reduce to a minimum the hazards of flying

During the period prior to planting the ground shall be

stones and brickbats. All rotary mowing machines are

maintained free from weeds. Grading and final

to be fitted with safety guards.

levelling of the lawn shall be completed at least three

weeks prior to the actual sowing. Regular watering

8.5.5

Rolling

shall be continued until sowing by dividing the

Lawn mower with roller shall be used periodically,

lawn area into portions of approximately 5 m² by

taking care that the lawn is not too wet and sodden.

constructing small bunds to retain water. These bunds

shall be levelled just prior to sowing of grass plants.

8.5.6

Edgings

At the time of actual planting of grass, it shall be

These shall be kept neat and shall be cut regularly with

ensured that the soil has completely settled.

the edging shears.

8.5.2

Soil

8.5.7

Watering

The soil itself shall be ensured to the satisfaction of

Water shall be applied at least once in three days

the landscape architect to be a good fibrous loam, rich

during dry weather. Water whenever done should be

in humus.

thorough and should wet the soil at least up to a depth

8.5.3

Sowing the Grass Roots.

of 200 mm.

Grass roots shall be obtained from a grass patch, seen

8.5.8

Weeding

and approved beforehand. The grass roots stock

Prior to regular mowing the contractor shall carefully

received at site shall be manually cleared of all weeds

remove rank and unsightly weeds.

and water sprayed over the same after keeping the stock

in a place protected from sun and dry winds. Grass

8.6

Maintenance

stock received at site may be stored for a maximum of

three days. In case grassing for some areas is scheduled

8.6.1

The landscape contractor shall maintain all

for a later date fresh stock of grass roots shall be ordered

planted areas within the landscape contract boundaries

and obtained. Small roots shall be dibbled about 75 mm

for one year until the area is handed over in whole or

apart into the prepared grounds. Grass areas will only

in phases. Maintenance shall include replacement of

be accepted as reaching practical completion when

dead plants, watering, weeding, cultivating, control of

germination has proved satisfactory and all weeds have

insects, fungus and other diseases by means of spraying

been removed.

with an approved insecticide or fungicide, pruning, and

other horticulture operations necessary for the proper

8.5.4

Maintenance

growth of the plants and for keeping the landscape

As soon as the grass is approximately 30 mm high it

contract area neat in appearance.

shall be rolled with a light wooden roller in fine, dry

8.6.2

Pruning and Repairs

weather — and when it has grown to 50 mm to 80 mm

above ground, weeds shall be removed and regular

Upon completion of planting work under the contract

cutting with the scythe and rolling shall be begun. A

all trees should be pruned and all injuries repaired

top-dressing of farm yard manure, bone meal at the

where necessary. The amount of pruning shall be

rate of 50 g/m² and NPK at the rate of 10 g/m² shall be

limited to the minimum necessary to remove dead or

applied when the grass is sufficiently secure in the

injured twigs and branches and to compensate for the

ground to bear the mowing machine, the blades shall

loss of roots and result of transplanting operations.

be raised 25 mm above the normal level for the first

Pruning and removal of any part of plant materials

two or three cuttings. That is to say, the grass should

should be done with clean sharp tools. Tools used to

be cut so that it is from 40 mm to 50 mm in length,

carry out the prunning work shall be appropriate for

instead of the 30 mm necessary for mature grass.

the task. The surface of tools and equipment will be

In the absence of rain, in the monsoon the lawn shall

sterilized after use on the plant materials that are

be watered with sprinklers every, three days soaking

suspected or known to be diseased. Cuts on plant

the soil to a depth of at least 200 mm. Damage, failure

materials shall be made into the living tissues to induce

PART 10 LANDSCAPING, SIGNS AND OUTDOOR DISPLAY STRUCTURES — SECTION 1 LANDSCAPE …

callousing. Cut surface will be flat, sharp and without

Operation

Frequency

jagged or torn edges.

viii) Grass cutting

Fortnightly

Pruning shall be done in such a manner as not to change

ix) Pruning and shaping Once every six month for

the natural habitat or special shape of the trees. Pruning

trees/palms

small and low sagging

operation will consider carefully the natural growth

branches

pattern of branches on the tree, palm or shrub. Tree

x) Staking

As and when required.

branches will be pruned back to the collar at the base

xi) Trimming shrubs/

Monthly or as when

of the branch.

ground covers

required

8.6.3

Tree guards

8.6.7

Clean-Up Works

Where tree guards are necessary, care should be taken

There shall be areas designated by landscape architect

to ensure that they do not impede natural movement

for the contractor to carry out clean-up works. These

or restrict growth.

shall include the following:

8.6.4

Nursery Stock

a) Removal of dead and/or overhanging

Planting should be carried out as soon as possible after

branches of existing trees, palms, shrubs and

reaching the site. Where planting needs to be delayed,

groundcovers.

care should be taken to protect the plants from pilfering

b) Removal of any garbage and unsightly foreign

or damage from people or animals. Plants with bare

materials.

roots should be heeled-in as soon as received or

c) Removal of dead vines and plant materials.

otherwise protected from drying out, and others set

The contractor shall prevent damages to the existing

closely together and protected from the wind. If

plant materials, identified to be conserved. The plant

planting needs to be delayed for more than a week,

materials that are to be conserved if damaged beyond

packed plants should be unpacked, the bundles opened

use during the clean-up operations, the contractor shall

up and each group of plants heeled-in separately and

be liable to replace the plant materials at their own

clearly labelled. If for any reason the surface of the

expense.

roots becomes dry the roots should be thoroughly

soaked before planting.

8.6.8

Restoration

8.6.5

Protective Fencing

The contractor is responsible for the use of all materials,

labour and equipments and any injury to the plant

According to local environment shrubs shall be

material, labour and equipment will be repaired or the

protected adequately from vandalism until established.

same replaced by the contractor at his own expense.

8.6.6

Routine Maintenance Work Schedule

8.6.9

Completion

Operation

Frequency

On completion, the ground shall be formed over and

i) Watering

Checking all planting

left tidy.

areas and pits and water

as often as necessary to

9 SERVICE UTILITIES IN LANDSCAPE

ensure that

planting

9.1

Designed integration of structures and elements

material does not dry out

related to external services (underground and over

ii) Weeding

Monthly

ground utilities) with landscape is most essential for

iii) Edging

Monthly

any outdoor space.

iv) Fertilizing

The following services generally are the subject of

a) Trees/palms

Once every three months

design co-ordination work for external areas:

b) Shrubs/ground

Monthly

a) Storm water drainage

covers

1) Storm water network;

c) Grass

Once every three months

2) Open drain and swale;

v) Loosening of soil

Monthly

3) Subsurface drainage system;

vi) Control of pest by

Fortnightly

4) Catch basin and manholes;

applying appropriate

insecticides

5) Culvert and bridge;

vii) Control of disease by

Monthly, increasing the

6) Percolation pits;

applying appropriate

frequency to fortnightly

7) Water harvesting units;

fungicides.

during rainy season

8) Retention walls and tanks;

NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF INDIA

9) Connection of all service lines up to out-

designed integration of external services networks and

fall; and

elements in the landscape proposal:

10) Other related structures.

The manholes and inspection chamber covers

Sewage disposal system

for all external services should be adequately

1) Sewerage network;

designed for the live load (pedestrian or

vehicular) and the top finish level has to be

2) Manholes, inspection chambers and

in alignment or flushed with the pavement or

grease trap;

finished ground level. The alignment of these

3) Septic tank, soak-pits, sewage treatment

structures should be such that it is in geometric

plant and root zone unit;

perpendicular or parallel with adjacent

4) Solid waste management units;

building or landscape lines. This would

5) Connection of all service lines up to out-

facilitate easy and unobstructed movement

fall; and

for pedestrians and increase the accessibility

6) Other related structures.

for wheelchair users in public place and

alsoaid the landscape geometry to be

Water supply

maintained.

1) Water supply network;

Fire hydrants should be prominently located

2) Inspection chamber and valve chamber;

and integrated with the landscape. Aesthetically

3) Water tank and treatment plant;

designed fire hose cabinet with clear access

4) Tube well, bore well and associated

as per statutory norms for fire safety, to be

pump houses, etc; and

located in geometric relation with adjacent

5) Service lines, elements associated with

building or landscape lines. These structures

water features and pools.

should not be a hindrance to vehicular or

pedestrian movement.

Fire lines

Irrigation hydrants should be unobtrusively

1) Yard hydrant lines;

located and generally at the edge of shrub

2) Yard or fire hydrants and hose reel box;

planting and additionally in close proximity

3) Fire water tank and pumps; and

to a drainage chamber or catch basin to avoid

4) Inspection chamber and valve chamber.

waterlog. Hydrants should not be located

inside the chamber to minimize waterlog from

Electrical works

leaking pipes causing various health related

1) Electrical network;

hazards. Hydrants should be located 200 mm

2) Light fixtures for road, pedestrian paths;

above the ground level.

special landscape features and building

Landscape lighting is a specialized activity

facade;

and illumination consultant or designer

3) Inspection chambers, junction boxes and

should develop the landscape lighting plan

feeder pillars;

taking into consideration energy saving

4) Electric poles, high voltage lines and

measures, safety aspects, lighting pollution

towers;

and illumination level. Light fixtures are an

5) Transformer, substation and distribution

important part of street furniture and it is

box; and

advisable to use pole mounted light fixtures

6) Other related structures.

for public landscape than bollards that are

prone to vandalism and damage.

Telephone and under ground cable network

Water body and fountains in public spaces

1) Telephone network;

should have filtration facility to avoid health

2) Inspection chambers;

hazards related to stagnant water. The piping

3) Telephone poles, transmission towers; and

should be concealed and the pump room,

4) Other related structures.

balancing tank and all other service structures

Fuel and gas line

to be designed as an integral part of landscape.

1) Supply network;

Storage facilities for inflammable liquid fuel

2) Inspection chamber and valve chamber;

and gas should be designed as a integral part

of the landscape and should be housed in

3) Fuel tank and gas tank; and

designed enclosures taking into consideration

4) Other related structures.

all statutory norms these structures are

9.1.1

The following guidelines shall be applied for the

subjected to.

PART 10 LANDSCAPING, SIGNS AND OUTDOOR DISPLAY STRUCTURES — SECTION 1 LANDSCAPE …

g) All underground service lines have to be well

All ramps should have minimum width of

coordinated and stacked appropriately in the

1.20 m, excluding edge protection. The cross

design stage to avoid overlaps and marked

slope of ramp should not exceed 1 in 50. And

with indicators above the ground for ease in

longitudinal slope of ramp should not

maintenance and servicing. Underground

exceed 1 in 12. All ramps should have an

service stacks should be generally aligned in

unobstructed level landing both at top and

soft areas with no tree plantation, this would

bottom of the ramp. The landing should have

facilitate easy maintenance without disrupting

the minimum width as the ramp. The landing

the hard surface.

should be minimum 1.50 m in length. Any

h) Designed façade for service structures that are

ramp beside the road should be located in such

above the ground in external areas is advisable

a way so that vehicles cannot park blocking

so as to assist in developing aesthetically

the access.

pleasing exterior environment. Such structures

Handrail would be required for any ramp with

should be designed in a modular way so that

greater vertical height than 300 mm to prevent

it would be part of the street furniture.

pedestrians and wheelchair users slipping

from the ramp. The height of the top handrail

10 PAVED SURFACES IN EXTERNAL AREAS

should be 900 mm from the top surface of the

ramp. The ramp surface should be rough

The paved areas that are used for movement of

finished. All ramp and landing should be

vehicles, pedestrians, and wheel chair users in outdoor

designed so that water does not collect on the

environment have to be designed to facilitate easy

surface of the ramp or landing.

accessibility, with well drained surface, and good visual

Stone not less than 40 mm in thickness should

clues achieved with varied colour and texture of

be used as paving finish in external areas.

finishing materials. The following guidelines may be

Adequate slope and drainage facility to be

applied for the design of paved outdoor spaces:

considered for all external paved surface

Roads should provide clear access to fire

integrating it with the pavement design.

fighting vehicles, ambulance, sanitation

Smooth finish is not recommended for

vehicles, etc and also allow safe movement

external areas except to convey any design

for vehicles, pedestrians and wheel chair

concept.

users.

Change in levels and steps may be depicted

Kerbs are required on all roads to adequately

in different texture or colour as a visual

control drainage within the road, prevent

clue.

moisture from entering the sub-grade,

separate the road from the pedestrian area, and

STREET FURNITURE

provide adequate lateral support for the

The design elements for outdoor spaces may be

pavement structure.

classified under the following categories:

Pedestrian circulation path consists of

sidewalks, wheelchair ramp, and landings.

a) Pavement and other pedestrian movement

Pathways of minimum width 1.50 m are

spaces, covering

required along the length of road for any

1) Footpath with heavy pedestrian traffic,

public or private building where pedestrian

2) Footpath with light pedestrian traffic,

traffic is excepted.

3) Plaza and public assembly spaces,

Path way should be physically separated by

4) Kerb to footpath, and

means of kerb, graded separation, barrier,

5) Steps and ramps.

railing, or other means. The cross slope of

sidewalk will not exceed two percent. The

b) Parking and vehicular movement corridor,

longitudinal slope of path should not exceed

covering

1 in 20, unless the longitudinal slope of the

1) Parking unit,

road exceeds this maximum, in that case the

2) Median and road divider,

standards that conform to a ramp should be

3) Road marking, and

applied.

4) Speed breaker.

Benches, shelters, poles, signs, bus stops, etc

c) Traffic management units, covering

should be located on edge of the sidewalk with

clear minimum width of 1.20 m for circulation

1) Bollards,

path.

2) Barriers,

NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF INDIA

3) Crash guard,

g) Tree protection units, covering

4) Gate/Access control,

1) Tree guard,

5) Vehicular height restrictors, and

2) Tree grate, and

6) Traffic separators.

3) Planter.

d) Outdoor public conveniences, covering

h) Garbage collection units, covering

1) Seating,

1) Litter bin, and

2) Drinking fountains, and

2) Spittoons.

3) Toilet/Wash rooms.

Service utilities, relating to

1) Water supply network,

e) Shelter and kiosks, covering

2) Storm water network,

1) Bus shelters,

3) Sewerage network,

2) Police booth,

4) Electrical network,

3) Telephone booth,

5) Telephone lines,

4) Milk booth/Food stall,

6) Cable e-net, and

5) Florist,

7) Gas.

6) Information desk, and

k) Display and Signage

7) Snack and coffee stall.

Location of the street furniture has to

f) Outdoor illumination, covering

coordinate with the traffic flow pattern of

1) Street light,

vehicles and pedestrians and external services.

2) Facade light, and

Some typical street furniture are given

3) Bollard light.

in Fig. 3.

PART 10 LANDSCAPING, SIGNS AND OUTDOOR DISPLAY STRUCTURES — SECTION 1 LANDSCAPE …

National Building Code Sectional Committee, CED 46

FOREWORD

This Section covers the requirements of signs and outdoor display structures with regard to public safety, structural

safety and fire safety. With the growing industrialization followed by urbanization of large number of cities and

towns, the advertising signs and its appurtenant structures had increased. In the absence of any definite rules, the

display of advertising signs had proceeded unrestrained resulting in a city or town littered indiscriminately with

hoardings and advertising signs of all types. Consideration of the aspects of urban aesthetics and public safety,

pointed to the necessity for building regulations for the control of advertising signs and structures.

This Section was, therefore, published in 1970 as Part 10 of the Code and was subsequently revised in 1983. In

the first revision, comments and suggestions received during its use were incorporated. As a result of experience

gained in implementation of 1983 version of this Section and feedback received, a need to revise this Section was

felt. In the existing version of the Code, Part 10 is titled as Signs and Outdoor Display Structures. Now, this Part

has been enlarged to also cover Landscaping. This Part is therefore, being brought out in two sections, namely

Section 1 Landscape Planning and Design and Section 2 Signs and Outdoor Display Structure. This revision as

Section 2 Signs and Outdoor Display Structure has, therefore, been prepared to take care of the need to update

the same. The significant changes incorporated in this revision include:

a) Few more terminologies related to signs have been added.

b) Few explanatory figures have been added.

c) Guidelines for signs in urban and rural areas have been introduced.

d) Guidelines for environmental graphics for the city scape have been introduced.

The provisions of this Section are without prejudice to the regulations already in vogue in areas requiring special

controls in harmony with their historical monuments/environment.

For signs coming on highways, relevant IRC rules shall apply. In this connection reference is made to

‘IRC 46 : 1972 A policy on road advertisements’.

All standards, cross-referred to in the main text of this Section, are subject to revision. The parties to agreement

based on this Section are encouraged to investigate the possibility of applying the most recent editions of the

standards.

PART 10 LANDSCAPING, SIGNS AND OUTDOOR DISPLAY STRUCTURES — SECTION 2 SIGNS …

NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF INDIA

PART 10 LANDSCAPING, SIGNS AND OUTDOOR

DISPLAY STRUCTURES

Section 2 Signs and Outdoor Display Structures

1 SCOPE

supported by a structure affixed to the ground, and not

supported by a building, including signs supported by

This Section covers the requirements with regard to

one or more columns, poles or braces placed in or upon

public safety, structural safety and fire safety of all

the ground.

signs and outdoor display structures.

2.1.12

Ground Sign — An advertising sign detached

2 TERMINOLOGY

from a building, and erected or painted on the ground

or on any pole, screen, fence or hoarding and visible

2.0 For the purpose of this Section, the following

to the public.

definitions shall apply.

2.1.13 Identification Sign — A sign that gives specific

2.1 Signs

location information, identifies specific items, for

2.1.1

Abandoned Sign — A sign structure that has

example, Parking Lot B, Building No. 5, First Aid,

ceased to be used, and the owner intends no longer to

etc.

use the same, for the display of sign copy, or as

2.1.14

Illuminated Sign — An advertising sign,

otherwise defined by state law.

permanent or otherwise, the functioning of which

2.1.2 Advertising Sign — Any surface or structure with

depends upon its being illuminated by direct or indirect

characters, letters or illustrations applied thereto and

light, and other than an electric sign.

displayed in any manner whatsoever out of doors for

2.1.15

Informational Sign — Used for overall

purposes of advertising or to give information

information for general organization of a series of

regarding or to attract the public to any place, person,

elements that is, campus plan, bus route, building

public performance, article or merchandise whatsoever,

layout, shopping mall plan, etc.

and which surface or structure is attached to, forms

part of or is connected with any building, or is fixed to

2.1.16

Mansard — An inclined decorative roof-like

a tree or to the ground or to any pole, screen, fence or

projection that is attached to an exterior building

hoarding or displayed in space.

façade.

2.1.3

Banner — A flexible substrate on which copy

2.1.17

Marquee Sign — An advertising sign attached

or graphics may be displayed.

to or hung from a marquee canopy or other covered

structure projecting from and supported by the building

2.1.4

Banner Sign — A sign utilizing a banner as its

and extending beyond the building wall, building line.

display surface.

2.1.18

Open Sign — An advertising sign in which at

2.1.5 Canopy Sign — A sign affixed to the visible

least fifty percent of the enclosed area is uncovered or

surface(s) of an attached or freestanding canopy.

open to the transmission of wind.

2.1.6

Closed Sign — An advertising sign in which at

2.1.19

Parapet — A low wall or railing built along

least more than fifty percent of the area is solid or

the edge of a roof or floor.

tightly enclosed or covered.

2.1.20

Portable Sign — Any sign not permanently

2.1.7

Combination Sign — A sign that is supported

attached to the ground or to a building or building

partly by a pole and partly by a building structure.

surface.

2.1.8

Direction Sign — Usually included with an

2.1.21

Projecting Sign — An advertising sign affixed

arrow and used for indicating a change in route or

to any building element and projecting more than

confirmation to a correct direction.

300 mm therefrom.

2.1.9

Electric Sign — An advertising sign in which

2.1.22

Regulatory Sign — Sign that gives operational

electric fittings, which are an integral part of the signs,

requirements, restrictions or gives warnings, usually

are used.

used for traffic delineation or control, for example

2.1.10 Exterior Sign — Any sign placed outside a

‘Stop’, ‘No Parking’, ‘One Way’, etc.

building.

2.1.23

Roof Sign — An advertising sign erected or

2.1.11

Freestanding Sign — A sign principally

placed on or above the parapet or any portion of a roof

PART 10 LANDSCAPING, SIGNS AND OUTDOOR DISPLAY STRUCTURES — SECTION 2 SIGNS …

of a building including signs painted on the roof of a

2.1.33

Window Sign — A sign affixed to the surface

building.

of a window with its message intended to be visible to

and readable from the public way or from adjacent

2.1.24 Sky Sign — An advertising sign displayed in

property.

space like:

2.2

General

a) a gas filled balloon anchored to a point on

the ground and afloat in the air with or without

2.2.1

Approved — Approved by the Authority having

a streamer of cloth, etc; or

jurisdiction.

b) sky-writing, that is, a sign or word traced in

2.2.2

Area of Special Control — Any area declared

the atmosphere by smoke discharged from an

an area of special control by the Authority in respect

aeroplane.

of the display of advertising signs, where the

2.1.25 Sign — Any device visible from a public place

requirements for such display are more restrictive than

that displays either commercial or non-commercial

elsewhere in the area controlled by the Authority.

messages by means of graphic presentation of

2.2.3

Authority Having Jurisdiction — The Authority

alphabetic or pictorial symbols or representations. Non-

which has been created by a statute and which for the

commercial flags or any flags displayed from flagpoles

purpose of administering the Code/Part, may authorize

or staffs shall not be considered as signs.

a committee or an official to act on its behalf;

2.1.26 Sign Area — The area of the smallest geometric

hereinafter called the ‘Authority’.

figure, or the sum of the combination of regular

2.2.4

Building Line — The line up to which the plinth

geometric figures, which comprise the sign face. The

of a building adjoining a street or an extension of a

area of any double-sided or ‘V’ shaped sign shall be

street or on a future street may lawfully extend. It

the area of the largest single face only. The area of a

includes the lines prescribed, if any, in any scheme.

sphere shall be computed as the area of a circle. The

2.2.5 Combustible Material — A material is combustible,

area of all other multiple-sided signs shall be computed

if it burns or adds heat to a fire when tested for non-

as 50 percent of the sum of the area of all faces of the

combustibility in accordance with good practice

sign.

[10-2(1)].

2.1.27 Sign Copy — Those letters, numerals, figures,

2.2.6

Owner — Person or body having a legal interest

symbols, logos and graphic elements comprising the

in land and/or building thereon. This includes free

content or message of a sign, exclusive of numerals

holders, leaseholders or those holding a sub-lease

identifying a street address only.

which both bestows a legal right to occupation and

2.1.28

Sign Face — The surface upon, against or

gives rise to liabilities in respect of safety or building

through which the sign copy is displayed or illustrated,

condition.

not including structural supports, architectural features

In case of lease or sublease holders, as far as ownership

of a building or sign structure, non-structural or

with respect to the structure is concerned, the structure

decorative trim, or any areas that are separated from

of a flat or structure on a plot belongs to the allottee/

the background surface upon which the sign copy is

lessee till the allotment/lease subsists.

displayed by a distinct delineation, such as a reveal or

border.

2.2.7

Street Line — The line defining the side limits

of a street.

2.1.29 Sign Structure — Any structure supporting a

sign.

3 PERMITS

2.1.30 Temporary Sign — An advertising sign, banner

3.1

Application

or other advertising device constructed of cloth, canvas,

3.1.1

Conditions for Grant of Permit

fabric or any other light material, with or without a

structural frame, intended for a limited period of

No sign shall be erected, altered or maintained without

display; including decorative displays for holidays or

first obtaining a permit for the same from the Authority

public demonstrations.

and shall be subjected to the following conditions:

2.1.31

VERANDAH Sign — An advertising sign

a) The written permission shall not be granted

attached to, posted on or hung from a VERANDAH.

or renewed at any one time, for a period

exceeding three years from the date of grant

2.1.32 Wall Sign — An advertising sign, other than a

of such permission or renewal.

projecting sign, which is directly attached to or painted

or pasted on the exterior surface of or structural element

b) The written permission or the renewal granted

of any building.

by the Authority shall become void:

NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF INDIA

1) if any sign or the part thereof falls

required, shall make application to the Authority on

either through an accident or any other

the prescribed form containing such particulars as the

causes;

Authority may require. Such a form (see Annex A)

2) if any addition is made except for the

shall be signed by the applicant and by the owner of

purpose of making it secure under the

the site upon which such sign is or is to be situated and

direction of the Authority;

shall include the following information:

3) if any change is made in the sign or part

a) Full specifications showing the length, height

thereof;

and weight of the sign, the location where it

4) if any addition or alteration is made to

is to be erected, the manufacturer’s name and

the building or structure upon or over

address and where applicable, the number of

which the sign is erected and if such

lights and electrical details of the same.

addition or alteration involves disturbance

b) Such form shall be accompanied by a location

of the sign or any part thereof; and

plan indicating the position of the sign on the

5) if the building or structure upon or over

site drawn to a scale of 1:500 and by full detail

which the sign is erected fixed or

drawing drawn to a scale of 1:20 or an exact

restrained becomes demolished or

multiple thereof in ink or on prints including,

destroyed.

if required by the Authority, an elevation

Light and ventilation of buildings, if any

showing the sign in relation to the façade.

situated near the signs and hoardings shall not

c) In the case of roof signs, projecting signs or

be obstructed in any way;

ground signs in addition to the foregoing, the

Advertisements displayed shall not be of

size of all members of supporting frameworks

any objectionable or obscene nature given

and anchorages, and, if required by the

in 3.3;

Authority, the necessary design calculations

In the public interest the Authority shall have

shall be furnished with the application.

the right to suspend the licence even before

d) Any other particulars as may be desired by

the expiry period, upon which the licencee

the Authority covered in 6.

shall remove the signs;

e) In the case of sky signs, necessary information

The licencee shall be responsible for the

as desired by the Authority may be supplied.

observance of all the rules and regulations laid

3.1.3

The Authority may, on the receipt of an

down by the Authority;

application for permit, either sanction or refuse such a

The signs should not mar the aesthetic beauty

permit or sanction with modifications as deemed

of the locality;

necessary and shall communicate decision to the

The signs other than pertaining to building

applicant. If within 30 days or receiving an application

shall not be permitted to come in front of

for a permit the Authority fails to intimate in writing

buildings such as hospitals, educational

to the applicant, the permit along with the plans shall

institutions, public offices, museums, buildings

be deemed as sanctioned.

devoted to religious worship and buildings of

3.1.4

When a sign has to be altered, information only

national importance;

on such plans and statements, as may be necessary,

Maintenance and inspection of advertising

shall be included in the form. However, the changing

signs and their supports shall be as given

of movable parts of an approved sign that is designed

in 4.

for such changes, shall not be deemed an alteration

No hoarding sign on the highways shall be

provided the conditions of the original approval and

put without the permission of the Authority

the requirements of this part are not violated.

maintaining/incharge of flyovers, highways/

roads; and

3.1.5

Existing Advertising Signs

In addition all signs shall conform to the

Advertising signs in existence at the date of

general requirements given in 6.

promulgation of the Code and covered by a valid

The signs shall not be nailed or tied to trees

licence or permit issued by the Authority shall not

or any other woody vegetation.

require to be licensed under the Code until such licence

3.1.2

Application for Licence or Permit and Required

or permit has expired, provided it is maintained in a

Drawings

good and safe condition.

Every person intending to erect, alter or display an

3.1.6

For advertising signs application shall be

advertising sign for which a permit or licence is

submitted through a structural engineer along with

PART 10 LANDSCAPING, SIGNS AND OUTDOOR DISPLAY STRUCTURES — SECTION 2 SIGNS …

necessary drawings and structural calculations. The

3.2.3.2

Highway Signs

wind load taken in the design calculations shall be in

In general, advertisements of the following classes

accordance with Part 4 ‘Structural Design, Section 1

are permissible without permission though these

Loads, Forces and Effects’.

should reasonably conform to the principles set out

in 3.5.1:

3.2 Exemptions

Class (1) Functional Advertisements:

3.2.1 No permit shall be required for signs and outdoor

display structures of the following types:

Official warning signs, traffic directions, sign

posting and notices or advertisements posted

a) If the signs are exhibited within the window

or displayed by or under the directions of any

of any building provided it does not affect

public or court officer in the performance of

light and ventilation of the building.

his official or directed duties.

b) If it relates to the trade or business carried

on within the land or building upon which

Example:

such advertisement is exhibited or to any

DIVERSION AHEAD

sale, entertainment or meeting or lettering

of such land or building or any effects

Direction signs to places of public amenity,

therein; or to the trade or business carried

such as petrol filling stations, hospitals, first-

on by the owner of any tramcar, omnibus

aid posts, police stations and fire stations.

or other vehicle upon which such

Example:

advertisements is exhibited, provided it is not

more than 1.2 m².

HOSPITAL

BUS STATION

c) In addition no permission shall be required

Signs relating solely to any city, town, village

for the signs covered in 3.2.2 to 3.2.5. Such

or historic place, shrine, place of tourist

exemptions, however shall not construed to

interest:

relieve the owner of the signfrom the

responsibility of erection and maintenance in

Example:

compliance with the Code.

ELLORA

FARIDABAD

3.2.2

Wall Signs

CAVES

TOWN

The wall signs listed in 3.2.2.1 to 3.2.2.3 shall not

Signs, notices, etc, erected by the Defence

require a permit.

Department for information of members of

the armed forces or the public.

3.2.2.1

Store signs

Example:

Non-illuminated signs erected over a show window or

over the door of a store or business establishment which

ARTILLERY RANGE AHEAD

announce the name of the proprietor and the nature of

Signs restricting trespass of property, limited

the business conducted therein; the sign shall not be

to 0.2 m² in area or less.

more than 1 m in height and the width of the business

establishment.

Example:

3.2.2.2

Government building signs

PRIVATE

TRESPASSERS

PROPERTY

WILL BE

Signs erected on a municipal, state or central

PROSECUTED

government building which announce the name, nature

of the occupancy and information.

Signs or notices, 0.2 m² in area or less, placed

so as to show direction to a residence

3.2.2.3

Name plates

and planted sufficiently away from the

Any wall sign erected on a building or structure

carriageway.

indicating the name of the occupant of building, which

is not more than 0.5 m² in area.

Class (2) Advertisements Relating to the Premises on

which these are Displayed:

3.2.3

Ground Signs

a) Advertisements for the purpose of identification,

3.2.3.1

Transit directions

direction or warning with respect to the land

The erection or maintenance of a sign designating the

or building on which they are displayed,

location of a transit line, a rail track, station or other

provided not exceeding 0.2 m² in area in the

public carrier when not more than 0.5 m² in area.

case of any such advertisement.

NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF INDIA

Examples:

Example:

MIND

PROPERTY OF

USHA

CAUTION EXCAVATION

THE STEP

MOHAN LAL

KIRAN

IN PROGRESS

& CO

d) Advertisements announcing any local event

Advertisements relating to any person,

of a religious, educational, cultural, political,

partnership or company separately carrying

social or recreational character, not being

on a profession, business trade at the premises

anactivity promoted or carried on for

where any such advertisement is displayed;

commercial purposes; limited to a display of

limited to one advertisement not exceeding

advertisements occupying an area not

0.3 m² in area in respect of each such person,

exceeding 0.6 m² on any premises.

partnership or company.

Examples:

Example:

DIWALI MELA

FLOWER SHOW

RAM LAL & COMPANY

3.2.4

Temporary Signs

Advertisements relating to any institution of

3.2.4.1

Construction site signs

a religious, educational, cultural, recreational,

medical or similar character or any hotel,

Construction signs, engineers’ and architects’ signs and

public house, dark bungalow, block of flats,

other similar signs which may be authorized by the

club, boarding house or hostel situated on the

Authority in connection with construction operations

land on which any such advertisement is

(see Table 1).

displayed; limited to one advertisement not

3.2.4.2

Special displays signs

exceeding 1.2 m² in area in respect of each

Special decorative displays used for holidays, public

such person, partnership or company.

demonstrations or promotion of civic welfare or

Examples:

charitable purposes, on which there is no commercial

advertising, provided that the Authority is not held

COLLEGE OF

HOLIDLAY

ENGINEERING

HOUSE

responsible for any resulting damage (see 15.2.2).

3.2.5

The qualitative requirements of signs given in

ROTARY CLUB

Table 1 shall not require any permit.

3.3

Unsafe and Unlawful Signs

Class (3) Advertisements of Temporary Nature

3.3.1

Notice of Unsafe and Unlawful Signs

a) Advertisements relating to the sale or letting

of the land on which they displayed; limited

When any sign becomes insecure, or in danger of

in respect of each such sale or letting to one

falling, or otherwise unsafe, or if any sign shall be

advertisement not exceeding 2 m² in area.

unlawfully installed, erected or maintained in violation

Examples:

of any of the provisions of the Code, the owner thereof,

or the person or firm maintaining the same, shall upon

TO LET

HOUSE FOR SALE

written notice of the Authority, forthwith in the case

of immediate danger and in any case within not more

b) Advertisements announcing sale of goods or

than three days, make such sign conform to the

livestock, and displayed on the land where

provisions of this part or shall remove it. If within three

such goods or livestock are situated or where

days the order is not complied with, the Authority may

such sale is held, limited to one advertisement

remove such sign at the expense of the owner.

not exceeding 1.2 m² in area.

3.3.1.1

Notwithstanding the above, it shall be the

Examples:

responsibility of the owner to ensure the safety of the

advertising signs, even without a reference from the

SALE THIS

CATTLE SALE

WEEK

Authority. The owner shall also ensure to remove the

remnant structures of the abandoned sign.

c) Advertisements relating to the carrying out

3.3.2

The following signs may not be permitted under

of building or similar work on the land

any circumstances:

on which they displayed exceeding 2 m² in

area.

Any sign which in the opinion of the Authority is an

PART 10 LANDSCAPING, SIGNS AND OUTDOOR DISPLAY STRUCTURES — SECTION 2 SIGNS …

Table 1 Advertising Signs for Which No Permit or Licence is Required

(Clause 3.2.5)

Class (with Sample)

Area of Each Separate

Maximum Height

Illumination

Description of Sign

Remarks

Sign (or Aggregate)

Above Ground

Provided

Floor Level to

Number

Maximum

Top of Sign

Permitted

Dimension of

Letters, Symbols,

etc

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(6)

(7)

Functional signs of certain

As may be reasonably

As stated in col 2

BUS

authorities statutory

required for the safe and

STATION

undertakings, public

efficient performance of

transport undertakings, and

the function

fire rigades, etc

Miscellaneous signs relating

Not more than 4 m²

Not more than 5 m

Only to indicate that

Any number

Not more than

X-RAY

to premises on which they

(in area of special

medical or similar

750 mm (in area

UNIT

are displayed

control 4 m)

services or supplies are

of special control

available on premises

300 mm)

a) Identification, direction,

MIND THE

where advertisement is

or warning

STEP

displayed*

b) Person partnership or

Not more than 0.3 m²

Not more than 5 m

Only to indicate that

One at each

Not more than

CHAWLA &

company carrying

each

(in area of special

medical or similar

entrance

750 mm (in area

CO. LTD.

profession business, or

control 4 m)

services or supplies are

of special control

trade; name or private

available on premises

300 mm)

S. BOSE

person

where advertisement is

displayed*

c) Relating to any

Not more than 1.2 m²

Not more than 5 m

Only to indicate that

One on each

Not more than

COLLEGE OF

institution of a religious,

each

(in area of special

medical or similar

frontage

750 mm (in area

COMMERCE

educational, cultural, or

control 4 m)

services or supplies are

of special control

medical character; name

available on premises

300 mm)

XYZ FLATS

of building or premises

where advertisement is

displayed*

Temporary signs (cloth

Not more than 2.4 m²

Not more than 5 m

None

Any number but

Not more than

Shall not be display-

HOUSE FOR

banners)

(ratio of width to depth

(in area of special

aggregate area

750 mm (in area

ed earlier than 28 days

SALE

2:1) in aggregate area.

control 4 m)

not to exceed that

of special control

before the sale or other

a) Signs relating to the sale

No sign to project more

given in col 2

300 mm)

matter is due to start and

or letting off the land

than 1 m when displayed

shall be removed within

(within the site of the

on a building (within the

14 days after the

building) on which they

site)

conclusion of such sale

are displayed

or matter

Table 1 — Concluded

Class (with Sample)

Area of Each Separate

Maximum Height

Illumination

Description of Sign

Remarks

Sign (or Aggregate)

Above Ground

Provided

Floor Level to

Number

Maximum

Top of Sign

Permitted

Dimension of

Letters, Symbols,

etc

(1)

(2)

(3)

(4)

(5)

(6)

(7)

Signs relating to the

Not more than 4 m²

Not more than 5 m

None

One for each

Not more than

May be displayed only

THIS FACTORY IS

carrying out of building

(in area of special

road frontage for

while such works are in

BEING ERECTED

750 mm

or similar operations on

control 4 m)

each ontractor or

progress

BY XYZ

(in area of

the land where sign is

sub-contractor

special control

CONSTRUCTION

displayed

CO.

300 mm)

Building and

Engineering

Contractor

Signs announcing any

Not more than 1.5 m²

Not more than 5 m

None

Any number but

Not more than

Shall not be displayed

DIWALI MELA

local event in connection

(in aggregate area 4 m)

(in area of special

aggregate area

750 mm (in area

earlier than 28 days

with an activity

control 4 m)

not to exceed that

of special control

before the event is due

promoted for non-

given in col 2 on

300 mm)

to start and shall be

commercial purposes by

any premises

removed within 14 days

various local

of its conclusion

organizations

Signs and business

Not to exceed one-

Not more than 4 m

Only to indicate that

Any number but

Not more than

Area to be computed as

XYZQR BANK

premises for areas of

twelfth of area of each

medical or similar

aggregate area

300 mm

if the advertisement

special control, signs

face up to a height

services or supplies are

not to exceed that

were laid flat against the

on business premises

of 4 m

available where

given in col 2

face of the building

with reference to the

advertisement is

business, the goods

displayed*

sold, or the services

provided, etc, in

these premises and

the name and

qualifications of

the person carrying

on such activity

—————————

* or where connected with danger.

obscene, repulsive, revolting, or objectionable

3.5.1

Highways and Roads

character or prejudicial to the municipality or savouring

In general the following advertisements should not be

political propaganda or of a nature calculated to

permitted:

produce pernicious or injurious effect on public or any

particular class of persons, or is displayed in such a

At or within 100 m of any road junction,

place, in such a manner or by any such means as, in

bridge or railway crossing or another crossing.

the opinion of the Authority, could be likely to affect

In urban areas, this distance may be reduced

injuriously the amenities of, or to disfigure any

to 50 m, provided there is no conflict with

neighbourhood.

the requirements stated further on;

NOTE — The safe stopping distance for a vehicle

3.4 Area of Special Control

travelling at a speed of 50 km/h is 60 m. This should be

the ‘uninfluenced distance’ for a driver approaching a

3.4.1

Whenever in the opinion of the Authority it is

junction. Assuming that 3 seconds is the time during

likely that any advertising device otherwise permitted

which the influence of an advertisement board persists,

in terms of the Code may affect injuriously or disfigure

the distance travelled in this time will be about 40 m.

The sign should, therefore, be more than 100 m away

any particular area within the jurisdiction of the

from the junction. Hence 100 m is suggested.

Authority it may proclaim such area as an area of

In such manner and at such places as to

special control. Parks and land for public use may also

obstruct or interfere with the visibility of

be included as areas of special control.

approaching, merging or intersecting traffic;

3.4.2

Subject to the provisions of 3.4.1 within such

Within 10 m of the edge of a carriageway;

area, the erection and display of any advertising sign

NOTE — A distance of 10 m may be taken as the

shall be prohibited or restricted in any manner deemed

normal minimum setback from the edge of the

necessary by the Authority. The Authority shall publish

carriageway, the maximum area of the advertisement

its intention of proclaiming such an area in one or more

being 0.3 m² for every metre of setback.

newspapers circulating in the area of jurisdiction of

Within 50 m along the road, of any sign board

the Authority. Any owner of property within such area

erected for the regulation of traffic under the

who may feel aggrieved by such proclamation may

orders of a Public Authority, such as a Traffic

appeal within one month from such publication against

Authority, a Public Transport Authority, or a

proclamation of such an area to the Authority whose

Local Authority;

decision shall be final.

In such a form as will obscure or hinder

interpretation of any sign, signal or other

3.4.3

The wording on any VERANDAH sign, permitted

device erected for traffic control by the Public

by the Authority, in any area of special control, shall

Authorities. For instance, the advertisements

be restricted to the name of the proprietor or firm

should not imitate or resemble, in colour or

occupying the premises, the name of the building or

shape, the standard legal traffic signs, or

institution, the general business or trade carried on,

employ such words as ‘STOP’ in the same

such as ‘JEWELLER’, ‘CAFÉ’, ‘DANCING’, or

manner as used on traffic signs;

information regarding the location of the building

entrance, box office or regarding the theatre programme

On boards, placards, cloth banners or sheets

or similar information. No VERANDAH sign in any

(except traffic signs) hung across a road as

area of special control shall advertise any particular

they distract the attention of driver and are,

article of merchandise nor shall any such sign refer to

therefore, hazardous;

price or reduction in price.

NOTE — Any advertisement allowed on the sides of a

foot over bridge or flyover across the carriage-ways

3.4.3.1

Normally no other advertising sign shall,

shall be restricted in size and shape such that no part of

except as for 3.4.3, be within a distance of 30 m from

the advertisement board projects beyond the top, bottom

the area of special control.

and sides of the parapet of foot over bridge or flyover.

In such form as will obstruct the path of

3.5 Prohibition of Advertising Signs on Certain Sites

pedestrians and hinder their visibility at

crossings;

Where the Authority is of the opinion that any site is

unsuitable for display of advertising signs by virtue of

Within right-of-way of the road; and

the general characteristics of the locality in regard to

When these will affect local amenity.

historic, architectural, cultural or similar interest, or

3.5.2

Illuminated advertisements of the following

by virtue of its position, the display of such signs is

description are objectionable from the angle or traffic

likely to affect in any way the safety of any form of

safety and should not be allowed:

transport, erection of advertising signs on such a site

shall be prohibited.

a) Advertisements which contain, include or are

NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF INDIA

illuminated by any flashing, intermittent or

withstand safely the wind, dead, seismic and other

moving light or lights except those giving

loads as set out in Part 6 ‘Structural Design, Section 1

public service information, such as time,

Loads, Forces and Effects’.

temperature, weather or date;

6.2

Illumination

b) Illuminated advertisements of such intensity

or brilliance as to cause glare or impair vision

No sign shall be illuminated by other than electrical

of the driver or pedestrians, or which

means and electrical devices and wiring shall be

otherwise interfere with any operations of

installed in accordance with the requirements of Part 8

driving; and

‘Building Services, Section 2 Electrical and Allied

Installations’. In no case, shall any open spark or flame

c) Advertisements illuminated in such a way as

be used for display purposes unless specifically

to obscure or diminish effectiveness of any

approved by the Authority.

official sign, device or signal.

6.3

Design and Location of Advertising Signs

4 MAINTENANCE AND INSPECTION

a) Sign should not obstruct any pedestrian

4.1 Maintenance

movement, fire escape, door or window,

All signs for which a permit is required, together with

opening used as a means for egress or fire

all their supports, braces, guys and anchors shall be

fighting purposes.

kept in good repair, both structurally and aesthetically,

b) No sign shall in any form or manner interfere

and when not galvanized or constructed of approved

with openings required for light and

corrosion-resistive non-combustible materials, shall be

ventilation.

painted when necessary to prevent corrosion.

c) When possible signs should be gathered

4.2 Housekeeping

together into unified systems. Sign clutter

should be avoided in the landscape.

It shall be the duty and responsibility of the owner of

d) Signs should be combined with lighting

every sign to maintain the immediate premises occupied

fixture to reduce unnecessary posts and for

by the sign, in a clean, sanitary and healthy condition.

ease of illuminating the signs.

4.3 Inspection

e) Information signs should be placed at natural

gathering spots and included in the design of

Every sign for which a permit has been issued and

sight furniture.

every existing sign for which a permit is required shall

f) Placement of sign should be avoided where

be inspected by the Authority at least once in every

they may conflict with pedestrian traffic.

calendar year.

g) Sign should be placed to allow safe pedestrian

5 TYPES OF SIGNS

clearance vertically and latterly.

In this part, the following types of signs are covered

h) Braille strips may be placed along sign edges

[see also a few explanatory figures of general sign types

or raised letters may be used for readability

(Fig. 1A), comparison of roof and wall or fascia sign

for the blind and partially sighted.

(Fig. 1B) and sign area computation methodology

j) No sign shall be attached in anyway to a tree

(Fig. 1C and 1D)].

or shrub.

a) Electric and illuminated signs (see 7);

6.4

Use of Combustibles

b) Ground signs (see 8);

6.4.1

Ornamental Features

c) Roof signs (see 9);

Wood or plastic or other materials of combustible

d) VERANDAH signs (see 10);

characteristics similar to wood may be used for

e) Wall signs (see 11);

mouldings, cappings, nailing blocks, letters and

f) Projecting signs (see 12);

latticing where permitted and for other purely

g) Marquee signs (see 13);

ornamental features of signs.

h) Sky signs (see 14); and

6.4.2

Sign Facings

Miscellaneous and temporary signs (see 15).

Sign facings may be made of approved combustible

6 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS FOR ALL SIGNS

materials provided the area of each face is not more

than 10 m² and the wiring for electric lighting is entirely

6.1 Loads

enclosed in metal conduit and installed with a clearance

Every advertising sign shall be designed so as to

of not less than 5 cm from the facing material.

PART 10 LANDSCAPING, SIGNS AND OUTDOOR DISPLAY STRUCTURES — SECTION 2 SIGNS …

NOTE — Sum of shaded areas only represent sign area for compliance purposes. Signs consisting of individual letters,

elements or logos placed on building walls or structures.

1D SIGN AREA - COMPUTATION METHODOLOGY

FIG.

1 TYPICAL EXAMPLES OF SIGN TYPE

6.5

Damage or Defacement by Removal of

6.7.1

No advertising sign shall be placed particularly

Advertising Signs

in bends and curves so as to obstruct the view of traffic

at intersecting streets.

Whenever any advertising sign is removed, whether

in consequence of a notice or order under the Code

6.8

Draining of Signs

or otherwise, any damage or defacement to the

building or site on or from which such sign was

Adequate provision for drainage shall be made in every

displayed, shall be made good to the satisfaction of

advertising sign, where the possibility of collection of

the Authority.

moisture exists.

6.6 Alteration to Ground Level

6.9

Glass in Signs

Whenever any alteration is made to the ground level

All glass used in advertising signs, other than glass

adjacent to any advertising sign, the owner of the site

tubing used in gas discharge or similar signs, shall be

on which sign is erected, shall be responsible for the

of safety glass conforming to accepted standards

alteration of the height of such sign so as to conform

[10-2(2)] at least

3 mm thick. Glass panels in

to the requirements of this Section.

advertising signs shall not exceed 6 m² in area, each

panel being securely fixed in the body of the sign

6.7 Traffic Control Interference

independently of all other panels. Glass signs shall be

No advertising sign shall be erected or maintained

properly protected from the possibility of damage by

which interferes with or is likely to interfere with any

falling objects by the provisions of suitable protecting

sign or signal for the control of traffic.

metal canopies, or by other approved means. Use of

PART 10 LANDSCAPING, SIGNS AND OUTDOOR DISPLAY STRUCTURES — SECTION 2 SIGNS …

glass may be discouraged or avoided wherever possible

which after erection is, in the opinion of the Authority,

for signs placed overhead.

of such intense illumination as to disturb the occupants

of adjacent or nearby buildings shall, on the order of

6.10 Interference to Fire Hydrants

the Authority, be suitably altered or removed by the

owner of the site concerned within such reasonable

Advertising signs shall be so placed as not to obstruct

period as the Authority may specify.

the use of the hydrants or other fire fighting

appliances.

7.6

Hours of Operation

6.11 Serving Devices

No electric sign, other than those necessary in the

opinion of the Authority in the interest of public

Ladders, platforms, hooks, rings and all other devices

amenity, health and safety, shall be operated between

for the use of servicing personnel shall have safety

midnight and sunrise.

devices and suitable design loadings (reference may

also be made to Part 7 ‘Constructional Practices and

7.7

Flashing, Occulting and Animated

Safety’).

No flashing, occulting or animated advertising signs,

6.12 Animated Devices

the periodicity of which exceeds 30 flashes to the

minute, shall be erected so that the lowest point of such

Signs which contain moving section or ornaments shall

signs is less than 9 m above the ground level.

have fail-safe provisions to prevent the section or

ornaments from releasing and falling or shifting its

7.8

For illuminated signs in the vicinity of airports,

centre of gravity more than 450 mm. The fail-safe

the Directorate General of Civil Aviation should be

device shall be in addition to the mechanism and its

consulted.

housing which operate the movable section or

8 GROUND SIGNS

ornament. The fail-safe device shall be capable of

supporting the full dead weight of the section or

8.1

Material

ornament when moving mechanism releases.

Every ground sign exceeding 6 m in height together

7 ELECTRIC SIGNS AND ILLUMINATED

with frames, supports and braces shall be constructed

SIGNS

of non-combustible material except as in 6.4.

7.1 Material for Electric Signs

8.2

Dimensions

Every electric sign shall be constructed of non-

No ground sign shall be erected to a height exceeding

combustible material except where the sign is purely a

9 m above the ground. Lighting reflectors may extend

flood-lit sign.

beyond the top or face of the sign.

7.2 Installation of Electric Signs and Illuminated

8.3

Supports and Anchorage

Signs

Every ground sign shall be firmly supported and

Every electric sign and illuminated sign shall be

acnchored to the ground. Supports and anchors shall

installed in accordance with Part 8 ‘Building Services,

be of treated timber in accordance with good practice

Section 2 Electrical and Allied Installations’.

[10-2(3)], or metal treated for corrosion resistance or

masonry or concrete.

7.3 No illuminated sign in red, amber or green colour

shall be erected or maintained within a horizontal

8.4

Site Cleaning

distance of 10 m of any illuminated traffic sign.

The owner of any site on which a ground sign is erected

7.4 All advertising signs illuminated by light other

shall be responsible for keeping such part of the site as

than a white light at height of less than two storeys or

is visible from the street, clean, sanitary, unoffensive

6 m above the footpath, whichever be the greater

and free of all obnoxious substances and unsightly

height, shall be suitably screened so as to satisfactorily

conditions to the approval of the Authority.

prevent any interference with any sign or signal for

8.5

Obstruction to Traffic

the control of traffic.

No ground sign shall be erected so as to obstruct free

7.5 Intense Illumination

access to or egress from any building.

No person shall erect any sign which is of such intense

8.6

Set Back

illumination as to disturb the residents in adjacent or

nearby residential buildings. Notwithstanding any

No ground sign shall be set nearer to the street line

permission given for such erection, any such sign

than the established building line.

NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF INDIA

8.7 Bottom Clearance

anchored to the building on or over which it is erected.

All loads shall be safely distributed to the structural

The bottom line of all ground signs shall be at least

members of the building.

0.6 m above the ground, but the intervening space may

be filled with open lattice work or platform decorative

9.6 For roof signs near the airports the Directorate

trim.

General of Civil Aviation should be consulted.

8.8

Ground painted signs shall conform to the

9.7 Painted roof signs shall conform to the requirements

requirements of 6 and 7 where applicable.

of 6 and 7, where applicable.

9 ROOF SIGNS

10 VERANDAH SIGNS

9.1 Material

10.1 Material

Every roof sign together with its frames, supports and

Every verandah sign shall be constructed entirely of

braces, shall be constructed of non-combustible

non-combustible material except as in 6.4.

material, except as in 6.4. Provision shall be made for

10.2 Dimensions

electric grounding of all metallic parts; and where

combustible materials are permitted in letters or other

No VERANDAH sign exceed 1 m in height. No

ornamental features, all wiring and tubing shall be kept

VERANDAH sign hanging from a VERANDAH shall

free and insulated therefrom.

exceed 2.5 m in length and 50 mm in thickness, except

that VERANDAH box signs measuring not more than

9.2 Dimensions

200 mm in thickness, measured between the principal

No roof sign shall exceed the following heights on

faces of the sign and constructed entirely of metal wired

buildings of heights:

glass may be erected.

10.3 Alignment

Height of Building

Height of Sign,

Max

Every VERANDAH sign shall be set parallel to the

a) Not exceeding four storeys or

2 m

building line, except that any such sign hanging from

18 m

a VERANDAH shall be set at right angles to the building

line.

b) Five to eight storeys or

3 m

exceeding

18 m but not

10.4 Location

exceeding 36 m

VERANDAH signs, other than hanging signs only, shall

c) Exceeding eight storeys or 36 m,

5 m

be placed in the following locations:

provided that in calculating the

height of such signs, signs placed

a) Immediately above the eaves of the

one above the other, or on planes

VERANDAH roof in such a manner as not to

at different levels of the same

project beyond the rear of the roof gutter;

building shall be deemed to be

b) Against but not above or below the

one sign, whether or not such

VERANDAH parapet or balustrade provided

signs belong to different owners

such parapet or balustrade is solid and the

sign does not project more than 20 cm from

9.3 Location

the outside face of such parapet or balustrade;

a) No roof sign shall be so placed on the roof of

any building as to prevent free passage from

c) On the VERANDAH beams or parapets in the

one part of the roof to another.

case of painted signs.

b) No roof sign shall be placed on or over the

10.5 Height of Hanging VERANDAH Signs

roof of any building unless the entire roof

construction is of non-combustible material.

Every VERANDAH sign hanging from a VERANDAH

shall be fixed in such a manner that the lowest

9.4 Projection

point of such sign is not less than 2.5 m above the

No roof sign shall project beyond the existing building

pavement.

line of the building of which it is erected or shall extend

10.6 Projection

beyond the roof in any direction.

Except as provided for in 10.4, no VERANDAH sign

9.5 Supports and Anchorage

shall extend outside the line of the VERANDAH to

Every roof sign shall be thoroughly secured and

which it is attached.

PART 10 LANDSCAPING, SIGNS AND OUTDOOR DISPLAY STRUCTURES — SECTION 2 SIGNS …

11 WALL SIGNS

b) No projecting signs shall extend above the

eaves of a roof or above the part of the

11.1 Material

building face to which it is attached.

Every wall sign exceeding 4 m² in area shall be

c) The maximum height of a projecting sign

constructed of non-combustible material except as

shall be related to the height of the building

in 6.4.

to which it is attached in the following

manners:

11.2 Dimensions

a) The total area of any wall sign shall not exceed

Height of Building

Height of Sign,

20 m² for every 15 m of building frontage to

No.

Max

the street to which such sign faces; except that

i) Not exceeding four

9 m

in the case of a wall sign, consisting only of

storeys or 18 m

the name of a theatre or cinema, the total area

ii) Five to eight storeys or

12 m

of such sign shall not exceed 200 m².

not exceeding 36 m

b) No wall sign which exceeds 30 m² in area shall

iii) Exceeding eight storeys

15 m

be located on any wall not directly facing the

or 36 m

road; provided that any such sign or signs

shall not exceed 25 percent of the side wall

12.3 Supports and Attachment

area visible from the street.

Every projecting sign shall be securely attached to a

11.3 Projection

building so that movement in any direction is prevented

No wall sign shall extend above the top of the wall or

by corrosion-resistant metal brackets, rods, anchors,

beyond the ends of the wall to which it is attached. At

supports, chains or wire ropes so designed and arranged

any place where pedestrians may pass along a wall,

that half the number of such fixing devices may safely

any wall sign attached thereto shall not project more

support the sign under all circumstances.

than 7.5 cm therefrom within a height of 2.5 m

12.3.1

Staples or nails shall not be used to secure any

measured from the level of such place.

projecting sign to any building.

11.4 Supports and Attachment

12.4 Additional Loads

Every wall sign attached to walls shall be securely

attached. Wooden blocks or anchorage with wood used

Projecting sign structures which could be used to

in connection with screws, staples or nails shall not be

support an individual on a ladder or other servicing

considered proper anchorage, except in the case of wall

device whether or not specifically designed for the

signs attached to walls of wood.

servicing device shall be capable of supporting the

anticipated additional load but in no case less than

12 PROJECTING SIGNS

500 kg concentrated horizontal load and 1 500 kg

vertical concentrated load applied at the point of

12.1 Material

assumed loading or point of most eccentric loading.

Every projecting sign and its support and framework

The building component to which the projecting sign

shall be constructed entirely of non-combustible

is attached shall also be designed to support the

material.

additional loads.

12.2 Projection and Height

13 MARQUEE SIGNS

No projecting sign or any part of its supports or frame

13.1 Materials

work shall project more than 2 m beyond the building;

however it shall not project beyond the plot line facing

Marquee signs shall be constructed entirely of metal

the street; when it projects into the street it shall be

or other approved non-combustible materials.

at clear height of 2.5 m from the road (see Part 3

‘Development Control Rules and General Building

13.2 Height

Requirements’):

Such sign shall not exceed 2 m in height nor shall they

project below the fascia of the marquee nor lower than

a) The axes of all projecting signs shall be at

2.5 m above the footpath.

right angles to the main face of the building.

Where a V-construction is employed for the

13.3 Length

faces, the base of the sign against the building

shall not exceed the amount of the overall

Marquee signs may extend the full length but in no

projection.

case shall they project beyond the ends of the marquee.

NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF INDIA

14 SKY SIGNS

advertising signs shall be removed as soon as torn or

damaged and in any case within 14 days after erection

14.1 In the case of the sky signs, the regulations laid

unless extended.

down by the Authority concerned shall apply.

15.2.3

The Authority shall be empowered to order

15 TEMPORARY ADVERTISING SIGNS,

the immediate removal of any temporary advertising

TRAVELLING CIRCUS SIGNS, FAIR SIGNS

sign or decoration, where, in its opinion such action

AND DECORATIONS DURING PUBLIC

is necessary in the interests of public amenity and

REJOICING

safety.

15.1 Types

15.2.4

Pole Signs

None of the following advertising signs shall be erected

Pole signs shall be constructed entirely of non-

or maintained, other than as temporary signs erected

combustible materials and shall conform to the

in accordance with 15.2:

requirements for ground or roof signs as the case may

Any advertising sign which is painted on or

be (see 8 and 9). Such signs may extend beyond the

fixed on to or between the columns of a

street line if they comply with the provisions for

VERANDAH;

projecting signs (see 12).

Any advertising sign which projects above or

15.2.5

Banner and Cloth Signs

below any fascia, bearer, beam or balustrade

Temporary signs and banners attached to or suspended

of a VERANDAH or balcony;

from a building, constructed of cloth or other

Any advertising sign which is luminous or

combustible material shall be strongly constructed and

illuminated and which is fixed to any fascia

shall be securely attached to their supports. They shall

bearer, beam or balustrade of any splayed

be removed as soon as torn or damaged, and in no

or rounded corner of a VERANDAH or

case later than 14 days after erection; except, that

balcony;

permits for temporary signs suspended from or attached

Any streamer sign erected across a road;

to a canopy or marquee shall be limited to a period of

Any sign not securely fixed so as to prevent

10 days.

the sign swinging from side to side;

15.2.6

Maximum Size

Any advertising sign made of cloth, paper

mache, or similar or like material but

Temporary signs shall not exceed 10 m² in area.

excluding licensed paper signs on hoardings

15.2.7

Projection

or fences;

Any advertising sign on a plot used or

Temporary signs of cloth and similar combustible

intended to be used exclusively for residential

construction shall not extend more than 300 mm over

purposes, other than a brass plate or board

or into a street or other public space except that such

preferably not exceeding 600 mm x 450 mm

signs when constructed without a frame may be

in size, affixed to the fence or entrance door

supported flat against the face of a canopy or marquee

or gate of a dwelling, and in the case of a block

or may be suspended from the lower fascia thereof but

of flats, affixed to the wall of the entrance

shall not extend closer to the footpath than 2.5 m.

hall or entrance door of any flat; and

15.2.8

Special Permits

Any sign on trees, rocks, hillsides and similar

natural features.

All temporary banners suspended from building or

hung on poles, which extend across streets or other

15.2 Requirements for Temporary Signs

public spaces shall be subject to special approval of

the Authority.

15.2.1 All temporary advertising, travelling circus and

fair signs and decorations during public rejoicing shall

15.2.9 Bill boards set up by the Authority shall be used

be subject to the approval of the Authority and shall

for temporary signs, symbols, bills for entertainment,

be subjected to the approval of the Authority and shall

etc, so that other walls of the city are not defaced.

be erected so as not to obstruct any opening and to

15.2.9.1

Bills for entertainment and other functions

minimize fire risk.

shall not be affixed on to building walls other than

15.2.2 The advertisement contained on any such sign

the bill boards

(see

15.2.9). The organization

shall pertain only to the business, industry or other

responsible for such bills and posters shall be held

pursuit conducted on or within the premises on which

responsible for any such defacement and non-removal

such sign is erected or maintained. Temporary

of signs.

PART 10 LANDSCAPING, SIGNS AND OUTDOOR DISPLAY STRUCTURES — SECTION 2 SIGNS …

16 ADDITIONAL GUIDELINES FOR SIGNS IN

d) Identification Sign — Electric sign, ground

URBAN AND RURAL AREAS

sign, building sign, illuminated sign and

temporary sign are permissible while sky sign

16.1 Erecting maintaining and owning signs in rural

is not permissible.

areas shall be encouraged so as to boost the information

e) Regulatory Sign — Electric sign, ground sign,

and economic status of the rural population.

illuminated sign and temporary sign are

16.2 The tolerance criteria for the permission granted

permissible while building sign and sky sign

towards putting up any signs for any urban area shall

are not permissible.

be as given in 16.2.1 to 16.2.4.

16.2.3

Large Cities

16.2.1 Small Towns

The traffic is high and hazards of accidents are many

The traffic hazards in small towns are few and the

in large cities. Defacement of buildings, roads and the

defacement due to excessive advertising signs has not

urban spaces due to advertisements has to be checked.

occurred. Therefore, orderly development of signs may

Therefore, the permissivity and tolerance for erecting

enliven the town environment and boost the economy.

signs is very low. The following guidelines may be

The tolerance here may be high. The following

followed for signage:

guidelines may be followed for signage:

a) Advertising Sign — Electric sign, ground sign,

illuminated sign and sky sign are permissible

building sign, illuminated sign, sky sign and

while building sign and temporary sign are

temporary sign are permissible.

not permissible.

b) Directional Sign — Electric sign, ground sign,

b) Directional Sign — Ground sign, illuminated

building sign, illuminated sign and temporary

sign are permissible while electric sign,

sign are permissible while sky sign is not

building sign, sky sign and temporary sign

permissible.

are not permissible.

c) Informational Sign — Electric sign, ground

c) Informational Sign — Ground sign, illuminated

sign, building sign, illuminated sign and

sign, building sign and temporary sign are

temporary sign are permissible while sky sign

permissible while electric sign and sky sign

is not permissible.

are not permissible.

d) Identification Sign — Electric sign, ground

sign, building sign, illuminated sign and

temporary sign are permissible while sky sign

is not permissible.

e) Regulatory Sign — Electric sign, ground sign,

e) Regulatory Sign — Ground sign, illuminated

illuminated sign and temporary sign are

sign and temporary sign are permissible while

permissible while building sign and sky sign

electric sign, building sign and sky sign are

are not permissible.

not permissible.

16.2.2 Medium Towns

16.2.4

Mega and Metro Cities

The traffic hazards in medium towns are few and the

The traffic hazards in mega and metro cities are many

defacement due to excessive advertising signs has not

and the defacement due to excessive advertising signs

occurred. Proper design, erection and maintenance of

has marred the urban environment. The density of

the signs shall be encouraged. The following guidelines

population is very high and the danger of greater loss

may be followed for signage:

of life due to disasters is self evident. Therefore, the

permissivity for erecting signs is very low and no

a) Advertising Sign — Electric sign, ground sign,

tolerance exists for law breakers. The following

building sign, illuminated sign, sky sign and

guidelines may be followed for signage:

temporary sign are permissible.

b) Directional Sign — Electric sign, ground sign,

a) Advertising Sign — Electric sign, ground sign,

illuminated sign are permissible while

illuminated sign and sky sign are permissible

building sign, sky sign and temporary sign

while building sign and temporary sign are

are not permissible.

not permissible.

c) Informational Sign — Electric sign, ground

b) Directional Sign — Ground sign, illuminated

sign, illuminated sign, and temporary sign are

sign are permissible while electric sign,

permissible while building sign and sky sign

building sign, sky sign and temporary sign

are not permissible.

NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF INDIA

c) Informational Sign — Ground sign, illuminated

projects and landscape projects on a large scale, the

sign and temporary sign are permissible while

following criteria should be followed for signs and

electric sign, building sign and sky sign are

outdoor display structures:

not permissible.

a) The aesthetic and harmonious development

d) Identification Sign — Electric sign, ground

of the visual environment.

sign, building sign, illuminated sign and

b) Signage for the handicapped at all grade

temporary sign are permissible while sky sign

changes, entry points to buildings and public

is not permissible.

conveniences and facilities. Braille strips used

e) Regulatory Sign — Ground sign, illuminated

should be displayed not above 1.5 m height

sign and temporary sign are permissible while

for the benefit of the visually impaired at all

electric sign, building sign and sky sign are

important nodes, entrances and routes. Ramps

not permissible.

for the people on wheelchair should be

highlighted with the appropriate international

17 ENVIRONMENTAL GRAPHICS FOR CITY

sign of the wheelchair. These need to be

SCAPE

lighted adequately even for night time.

17.1 The urban environment may be susceptible to

c) Environmental graphics should be creatively

confusion and chaos due to improper graphics,

designed to cater to the basic function of

hoardings and advertisements. Therefore, the signage

information, identity and way finding,

should be installed following requisite guidelines laid

with the objective of improvement of urban

down keeping the functional, safety and aesthetic

scape.

aspects in view.

d) Safety aspects.

The scale of the project should also be considered for

e) Protection of trees and other vegetation from

implementing signage design. In urban design/planning

harm due to signs.

ANNEX A

(Clause 3.1.2)

SPECIMEN FORM FOR APPLICATION FOR PERMIT TO ERECT,

RE-ERECT OR ALTER ADVERTISING SIGN

1. Type of sign

*Location:

a) Building/premises

b) Location of building/premises with respect to neighbouring streets

*Dimensions and details of the sign

Materials used for different parts

*Electrical and lighting details

*Structural details showing also supporting framework and anchorages

7. Mode of operation

* Plans as desired in 3.1.2(b) are enclosed.

Name and address of the applicant

Name and address of the owner of the

building/premises

Signature

Date

PART 10 LANDSCAPING, SIGNS AND OUTDOOR DISPLAY STRUCTURES — SECTION 2 SIGNS …

NATIONAL BUILDING CODE OF INDIA (2005) - page 6