Eng. Sherif El-Sherbiny, Minister of Housing, Utilities, and Urban Communities, announced the cancellation of the urban planning and building regulations issued in March 2021. The decision marks a return to the provisions of Building Law No. 119 of 2008 and its executive regulations in accordance with the directives of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi. This move is part of the ongoing efforts to simplify and expedite the process of issuing building permits within the urban areas and local administrative units, aimed at easing burdens on citizens and supporting urban development.
The Minister emphasized that the permitted building heights will continue to adhere to the specifications outlined in the strategic and detailed plans, as well as the approved subdivision regulations and organizational lines. He also confirmed that all construction must comply with the Egyptian building codes. Additionally, commercial and administrative activities will now be allowed on the ground and first floors of residential buildings located on streets more expansive than 10 meters.
El-Sherbiny noted that Ministerial Decree No. 943, issued on September 3, 2023, amends the executive regulations of the Building Law. These amendments specifically affect articles 110, 112, and 117, allowing for their application within the local administrative units across the governorates.
Eng. Nafisa Hashem, head of the Housing and Utilities Sector at the Ministry, explained that these simplifications in the building permit process aim to encourage citizens to obtain permits for safe and structurally sound buildings. Furthermore, the reforms are designed to stimulate progress in the construction and urban sectors, which are essential drivers of the national economy.