Dubai has strict laws and regulations that all visitors and residents must abide by. For instance, the Dubai Municipality has certain guidelines for apartment balconies.
These balcony rules help keep the aesthetic of the apartment buildings. Besides, the rules ensure your safety, while you can enjoy your apartment outdoor space fully.
In this article, we’ll discuss some of the balcony rules in Dubai including construction regulations, usage legalities and violation fines.
- What Classifies As a Balcony?
- Laws and Regulations for Constructing Balconies in Dubai
- Balcony Laws and Regulations in Dubai
- Additional Notice
- Fines and Penalty for Breaching Balcony Rules
- FAQs
What Classifies As a Balcony?
Before checking out the balcony rules in Dubai, it’s important to figure out if you own a balcony in the first place.
According to the definition under the Dubai Building code, a balcony is any projection (whether complete or partial) on the building’s exterior wall that can be accessed from the inside. It’s usually an extended outdoor space that apartment owners decorate so they can sit outside and enjoy the view without leaving their apartments.
Many people tend to confuse balconies with terraces, thinking they are the same. However, in contrast to a balcony, a terrace is a structure that is supported from beneath. Moreover, it is not accessed through a room- it is simply referred to as a rooftop.
Balconies differ from building to building, the guidelines created for them are to ensure that the beauty of the city is preserved in the ever-changing environment.
Laws and Regulations for Constructing Balconies in Dubai
Here are some guidelines to check as a building owner who wants to construct a balcony in Dubai.
- The height of the balcony from above the ground must not be less than 1200mm.
- Any balcony or slab that is above 2 metres must be protected by grills or protective railings.
- The height of the grill must exceed 4 feet.
- On balconies that are inhabited by children, the railings must be vertical instead of horizontal to prevent children from climbing. Moreover, each railing must have a spacing of at least 4 to 4.5 inches, nothing larger.
- Up until 760mm no bar, climbable object or projected element should be installed on the balcony.
- On balconies/ structures facing the road, projections outside the main boundary are only permissible if the width of the road is more than 9 metres.
- The difference between vertical posts must not exceed more than 100mm.
- For balconies exceeding 760 mm in height, a guard (parapet) is required.
Balcony Laws and Regulations in Dubai
Here are some guidelines you need to be familiar with if you’re visiting or living long-term in a unit with a balcony in Dubai.
No Barbeque Grills/statutes
Open flames and grills pose a major fire hazard in buildings. For this reason, most balconies should not have barbecue grills. If you’re in the mood for barbecuing, consider checking in your building for a grilling space.
Laundry Rules
While you may need a place to dry wet clothes and curtains, it is not permissible to hang them out according to the Dubai balcony rules. Doing so spoils the building’s aesthetic, which contributes negatively to the city’s visual appeal. You can, however, use a drying rack to dry your clothes.
Water Spilling
Splashing water from the balcony or using a pipe to water your plants is strictly forbidden. Doing so causes water to trickle from the balconies, spoiling the look of the building. Alternatively, using a spray or watering can is more feasible.
Pets and Children
Pet owners and parents are required to be extremely cautious of their children or pets while using the balcony. An adult is advised to be present at all times to supervise their pet/child so that they may not leap off the balcony.
Some rules state that balconies’ doors must have a high lock to prevent children from accessing them.
Additional Notice
While we have already discussed the balcony rules implemented by local law, it is important to note that there may be more rules you need to follow depending on your agreement.
It may be worth checking out your renters agreement/hotel guidelines to see if there are any other balcony rules you are bound by.
That said, there are some general precautions one can take to ensure their own safety.
- Prevent storing furniture or high-rise obstacles on your balcony, as children can use them to leap off the railing.
- Be sure not to indulge in any activity on the balcony that may be bothersome to the neighbours. This includes using alcohol, drugs, or loud music.
- Ensure the door to the balcony has a functional lock positioned high, away from children’s reach.
- Do not alter the balcony’s structure, i.e., add unnecessary dividers, wires, nets, etc., without the authorities’ consent.
Fines and Penalty for Breaching Balcony Rules
Any misuse of the balcony or breaking of the construction laws results in a fine by the local authorities. This may range from AED 500 to AED 1500, depending on the penalty and the size of your balcony.
Therefore, when following the balcony decoration ideas, don’t breach the rules to avoid fines.
Individual property developers can also impose fines for residents who misuse the balcony. Either way, these rules are made to ensure order and the visual image of the properties in Dubai. Failure to comply with the rules may result in fines or termination of your agreement.
FAQs
Generally, cigarette smoking and shisha are discouraged due to the small fire hazard that comes with them. However, many developers permit the use of shisha and cigarettes. It is advised to check your agreement or confirm with the developer.
Decorating a balcony with plants is acceptable as long as the decoration isn’t offensive or blocking the view of the neighbours. Make sure not to throw excessive water over the plants by using a watering can to water their plants.
Excessive accumulation of cartons, furniture, and litter on the balcony contributes negatively to the look of the building; hence, it is not allowed to use your balcony as a storage unit. Using a balcony for purposes other than its intended use can result in fines.
These were all the details about balcony rules and regulations in Dubai. If you buy or rent an apartment in Dubai, ensure following these Municipality rules and regulations.
