Archive · 10 Jan 2026
GHMC Issues Guidelines for Belated Occupancy Certificates
The GHMC in Hyderabad has made new rules for giving occupancy certificates (OCs) to buildings that were built a long time ago but didn't get their OCs on time.
These rules help people who have trouble getting water, electricity, and bank loans because they don't have an OC.
If you apply within two years of the building permit expiring, you'll pay some fees.
If you apply after two years, you'll pay more fees.
The buildings must be built almost the same as the approved plans, with only small changes allowed.
This is good news for many people who need these certificates to live comfortably in their homes.
The GHMC also announced a one-time settlement scheme for property tax defaulters, offering a 90% waiver on accumulated interest.
GHMC issued guidelines for processing and issuing belated occupancy certificates (OCs) for non-high-rise buildings.
Applications within two years of building permit lapse will be processed with pending fees and applicable charges.
Applications after two years will incur all charges applicable to the built-up area as on the date of OC application.
OCs will be considered only if construction deviations are within permissible limits (up to 10% in mandatory setbacks, excluding front setback).
The move aims to benefit citizens by enabling them to obtain OCs and access essential civic services.
- Who
- Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC)
- What
- Issued guidelines for processing and issuing belated occupancy certificates (OCs) for non-high-rise buildings
- When
- January 8, 2026
- Where
- Hyderabad
- Why
- To address difficulties faced by purchasers and prospective buyers in obtaining essential services and securing loans
Pro-Government
Citizen Advocates
Timely Application Benefits
Pro-Government
The GHMC's guidelines provide a clear and structured process for obtaining belated occupancy certificates, ensuring that citizens can access essential services.
Citizen Advocates
While the guidelines are helpful, some citizens argue that the fees and charges, especially for applications after two years, are still too high and may not be affordable for everyone.
- Organization
- Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC)
- Applicability
- Non-high-rise buildings
- Validity Period
- Within 2 years of lapse
- Charges
- Pending building permit fee, link road charges, CRMP fees
- Deviation Limit
- Up to 10% in mandatory setbacks (excluding front setback)
- Date of Circular
- January 8, 2026
- Government Order Reference
- GO Ms No.168 (MA&UD, dated April 7, 2012)
Sources
GHMC Finalises Norms for Issuing Belated Occupancy Certificates
GHMC offers 90% interest waiver in one-time property tax settlement
GHMC clears path for Occupancy Certificates after permit lapse
Setback norms relaxed for small plots as GBA issues final notification
High-Rises Turn Hot Favourite for Developers in Hyderabad
