
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The Sindh Building Control Authority (SBCA) is a government regulatory body responsible for approving building plans, regulating construction activities, and enforcing building by-laws in Sindh, especially in Karachi.
To ensure your building project complies with safety standards, zoning regulations, and land use laws. Without approval, your structure may be considered illegal and could face penalties or demolition.
All residential, commercial, and industrial constructions, including renovations, additional floors, and boundary walls, must be approved by SBCA.
You must hire a licensed architect/engineer who will prepare the plan and submit it to SBCA for vetting. Online submission through the SBCA portal is also available for certain categories.
For Category-I residential buildings (up to 399 sq. yards, ground + 2 floors), the approval process is simplified and typically takes 10-15 working days, assuming all documents are in order.
Yes. SBCA conducts inspections during key stages of construction to ensure compliance with approved plans and safety standards.
Construction without permission is illegal. SBCA can issue stop-work notices, impose fines, or even order demolition of unauthorized structures.
Yes, SBCA charges scrutiny and approval fees based on the category and size of the project.
It is a document issued by SBCA after final inspection, certifying that the construction is completed according to the approved plan. It’s required to apply for utilities like electricity and gas.
SBCA’s head office is located in Karachi:
SBCA Civic Center, Gulshan-e-Iqbal, Karachi, Sindh, Pakistan.