Gfa Handbook PDF

Table of Contents
Cover Page
Preface
Part1 Topics
1. Introduction
2. Objectives
3. Definition of gross floor area
4. Basic information required for computing gross floor area
5. Items counted as gross floor area
6. Items partially counted as gross floor area
7. Items not counted as gross floor area
Part 2 Site coverage & communal open space (COS)
Part 3 Apportionment of floor areas in mixed developments
Part 4 Re-computation of GFA for existing developments
Part 5 Items at a glance
1. Gross floor area (GFA)

2. Site coverage & communal open space
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As at October 2018
Handbook on
GROSS FLOOR AREA
This handbook is subject to revision from time to time. Nothing herein shall be construed to
exempt the person submitting an application or any plans from otherwise complying with the
provisions of the Planning Act (Cap 232, I998 Ed) or any rules and/or guidelines made
thereunder or any Act or rules and/or guidelines for the time being in force.
While every endeavour is made to ensure that the information provided is correct, the Competent
Authority and the Urban Redevelopment Authority disclaim all liability for any damage or loss that
may be caused as a result of any error or omission.
Important Note:
You are advised not to print any page from this handbook as it is constantly updated.
URBAN REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY
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PREFACE
The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) is Singapore’s national planning

authority. Its task is to plan and facilitate the physical development of Singapore and
ensure that Singapore’s limited land resource is put to optimal use. Through this role,
URA aims to make Singapore a great city to live, work and play in.
As part of URA’s on-going efforts to provide excellent service to the public to facilitate
property development, it has produced a series of handbooks on development
control to inform and guide the public on the procedures in submitting development
applications.
This Handbook on Gross Floor Areas is the latest in the series. The other handbooks
in the series are:
Conservation Guidelines
Parameters for Residential Development
Parameters for Non-Residential Development
PURPOSE OF THIS HANDBOOK
This handbook explains the principles of what constitutes gross floor areas. It also
provides a listing of items that are counted as GFA, partially counted as GFA, and
not counted as GFA. If you wish to seek further clarification, please call DCG Enquiry
Line at 6223 4811.
The principles and illustrations used in the handbook are not exhaustive in covering
all possible building designs. URA reserves the right to interpret GFA matters based
on the specific design of a development proposal on a case-by-case basis.
This handbook is subject to revision from time to time. Nothing herein shall be
construed to exempt the person submitting an application or any plans from
otherwise complying with the provisions of the Planning Act (Cap. 232) and any rules
and/or guidelines made thereunder or any other written law and/or guidelines for the
time being in force.
While every endeavour is made to ensure that the information provided is correct, the
Competent Authority and the Urban Redevelopment Authority disclaim all liability for
any damage or loss that may be caused as a result of any error or omission.
Important Notes:
You are advised not to print any page from this handbook as it is constantly updated.
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Part 1 GROSS FLOOR AREA
1 Introduction
1.1 Prior to 1989, the development intensity for residential development

was measured in terms of density i.e. persons per hectare. For non-
residential developments such as industrial and warehouse buildings,
institutional buildings, commercial buildings, and etc., the intensity was
measured in terms of plot ratio. The methods used also changed over the
years.
1.2 In 1989, following the introduction of the new development charge

system, the Gross Floor Area (GFA) concept was adopted to determine the
development intensity of a building. Under this GFA concept, all covered floor
areas of a building except otherwise exempted, and uncovered areas for
commercial uses are deemed the gross floor area of the building.
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2 Objectives
Gross floor area (GFA) measures the bulk and intensity of a development for
the purposes of plot ratio control and computation of development charge.
Using this GFA concept, the owners or developers are free to determine how
much neutral areas they want to provide in their buildings.
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3 Definition of Gross Floor Area
3.1 All covered floor areas of a building, except otherwise exempted, and
uncovered areas for commercial uses are deemed the gross floor area of the
building for purposes of plot ratio control and development charge. The gross
floor area is the total area of the covered floor space measured between the
centre line of party walls, including the thickness of external walls but
excluding voids. Accessibility and usability are not criteria for exclusion from
GFA.
3.2 URA reserves the right to decide on GFA matters based on the
specific design of a development proposal on a case-by-case basis.
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4 Basic information required for computing gross floor area
4.1 Site Area

The site area is the area of a development plot measured between the survey
boundary lines. The boundary line defines the legal ownership of the property
or development site. The development plot could either sit on a full lot or on a
part lot. If there are areas within the development site to be vested to the
State, for example for road widening or drainage purposes, these areas can
be included as part of the development site for plot ratio calculation. Once
these areas are vested to the state, they cannot be used for plot ratio
calculation, subsequently.
4.2 Plot Ratio

The plot ratio of a site is defined as the ratio of the gross floor area of a
building(s) to its site area.
4.2.1 Proposed plot ratio
The proposed plot ratio as declared by the qualified persons in the
EDAform/application form. Generally, this plot ratio is not allowed to exceed
the current Master Plan plot ratio.
4.2.2 Allowable plot ratio
The allowable plot ratio is the prescribed plot ratio in the current Master Plan.
4.2.3 Computation of plot ratio
Plot ratio = Gross Floor Area / Site Area
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5 Items counted as gross floor area
5.01 Airwells (in old developments)
5.02 ATM kiosk
5.03 Balconies
5.04 Private Enclosed Space (PES)
5.05 Private Roof Terrace
5.06 Bay Windows
5.07 Motorcycle parks
5.08 Car parks
5.09 Catwalk
5.10 Floors
5.11 Guardhouse & sentry post
5.12 Household shelters
5.13 Lift Motor Room
5.14 Loading and unloading platforms
5.15 Outdoor refreshment areas (ORA)
5.16 Outdoor refreshment kiosk
5.17 Planter boxes located within a strata unit
5,18 Recessed windows (Reversed of bay window)
5.19 Refuse chambers
5.20 Staircases
5.21 Swimming Pools
5.22 Urban Verandahs (for Orchard Planning area)
5.23 Void deck of residential buildings
5.24 Walls and columns
5.25 Indoor Recreation Spaces
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5 Items counted as gross floor area
5.01 Airwells (in old developments)

Air wells and open courtyards of shophouses and old developments which existed
before the introduction of the Planning Act in 1960 will be computed as existing gross
floor area.
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5.02 ATM kiosk
ATMs housed in permanent kiosk-type structures.
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5.03 Balconies
Balconies are important features of tropical architecture. Not only do they allow for
natural ventilation and lighting, they promote healthier living and facilitates more
greenery in our high-rises.
Balconies are intended to be covered semi-outdoor spaces and constitute gross floor
area (GFA). See Figures 5-1 and 5-2.
The GFA of the balconies is allowed to be computed over and above the Master Plan
control, subject to a cap of 7% for private non-landed residential developments and
10% for hotel developments. Existing developments, whose gross plot ratio (GPR)
have exceeded the Master Plan intensity would also qualify for the additional balcony
gross floor area (GFA), subject to a cap of 7% of the existing and approved GPR for
private non-landed residential developments and 10% of the existing and approved
GPR for hotel developments.
However, this would not apply to existing developments whose building form, height
or use are not in accordance with the planning intention as indicated in the Master
Plan, Building Height Plan or Special and Detailed Control Plan. For example, an
existing flat and condominium development within a Designated Landed Housing
Area or Good Class Bungalow Area would not qualify for the 7% additional GFA.
The additional 7% balcony GFA is applicable to:

a) residential developments (flats, condominium, and serviced
apartments)
b) residential components within mixed-use developments
The additional 10% balcony GFA is applicable to:

a) hotel developments
The balconies must have a continuous perimeter opening of at least 40% to qualify
for the additional GFA. See Figure 5.3. This is to safeguard a reasonable degree of
openness in balconies to distinguish them from indoor spaces. It also reinforces the
planning objective of giving GFA incentive for balconies to facilitate tropical
architecture.
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The guideline will allow more flexibility in designing balconies where a variety of
balcony forms can be considered in addition to the usual rectilinear forms. See
Figure 5-4.
The total balcony area(s) for each unit will be capped at 15% of the nett internal area.
This excludes excluding voids, balconies, air-conditioner ledges and other external
areas. This will ensure that balconies are not disproportionately large relative to the
main unit.
Each balcony is to have a minimum width of 1.5m as measured from the external
building wall to enable it to function as a meaningful outdoor space. Exceptions to the
width requirement can be considered based on the design merit of the proposal, such
as a curved or odd-shaped balcony.
Balcony screens can be allowed provided that they comply with the following
performance criteria:
a) The proposed balcony screens are porous enough to allow for natural
ventilation within the balcony at all times even when the screens are
fully drawn closed; and
b) The proposed balcony screen is capable of being drawn open or

retracted fully.
See Figure 5-5 for some possible designs of balcony screens that can be considered
and Figure 5-5-1 shows a balcony screen that is not allowed. Such screens are
intended to provide shade and still allow balconies to function as semi-outdoor
spaces. It will also avoid inconsistent ad-hoc enclosures by individual owners which
could detract from the original building design and appearance. Balconies are also
not allowed to be enclosed with walls or glass panels into rooms. Safety grilles are
independent from balcony screens and are precluded from complying with the above
performance criteria for balcony screens.
The additional balcony GPR can only be used for balcony GFA and will not form the
future development potential of the site upon redevelopment. The additional balcony
GFA is subject to payment of development charge or differential premium, where
applicable.
Inward facing balconies, overlooking a small internal air well, and service balconies,
which are commonly provided at utility areas for the purpose of drying clothes, would
not qualify for the additional GFA incentive.
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Figure 5-1 Balconies
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Figure 5-2 GFA Treatment for Balconies
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Figure 5-3 Computation of Balcony Perimeter Opening
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Figure 5-4 Balcony Forms that can be considered as long as they meet the
min 40% perimeter opening control
Example 1
Example 2
Figure 5-5 Possible Design of Balcony Screens
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Figure 5-5-1 Balcony screen that is not allowed
Note:
The screen designs shown above are from overseas and are meant as examples only. Actual design proposals need
not be limited to those shown above as long the performance criteria are met.
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5.04 Private Enclosed Space (PES)

A “Private Enclosed Space” refers to a semi-outdoor area adjacent to a strata unit. It
forms part of the private strata area of units which are sold to buyers.
All PES in non-landed residential developments, including executive condominiums,

will be counted as GFA under the 7% maximum bonus GFA allowed beyond the
Master Plan (MP) stipulated GPR1 . To qualify for the bonus GFA scheme, PES will
need to comply with a set of guidelines. Please see Figure 5-6 of the Residential
Handbook for more details.
1 Applies only to developments approved by URA on or after 12 January 2013. PES of developments approved
before 12
January 2013 do not count towards the development’s GFA. For more information, please click here.
2 Including private staircases leading directly to Private Roof Terraces
3 Applies only to developments approved by URA on or after 12 January 2013. Private Roof Terraces of
developments approved before 12 January 2013 do not count towards the development’s GFA. For more
information, please click here.
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Figure 5-6 GFA treatment for PES in non-landed residential developments
PES in strata-subdivided non-residential developments will be computed as part
of the MP allowable GFA.
5.05 Private Roof Terrace

A “Private Roof Terrace” refers to a semi-outdoor area located at the roof level of a
strata unit. It forms part of the private strata area of units which are sold to buyers.
All Private Roof Terraces2 in non-landed residential developments, including

executive condominiums, will be counted as GFA under the 7% maximum bonus
GFA allowed beyond the Master Plan (MP) stipulated GPR3. To qualify for the bonus
GFA scheme, Private Roof Terraces will need to comply with a set of guidelines.
Please see Figure 5-7 of the Residential Handbook for more details.
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Figure 5-7 GFA Treatment for Private Roof Terraces in non-landed residential
developments
Private Roof Terraces in strata-subdivided non-residential developments will be
computed as part of the MP allowable GFA.
5.06 Bay Windows

With effect from 1 Jan 2009, bay windows in all types of developments will be
counted as GFA, regardless of dimensions and materials. (Circular in URA/PB/2008/18-
DCD dated 22 Sep 2008)
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5.07 Motorcycle parks

Covered motorcycle parks have to be computed as gross floor area. If the motorcycle
parks are located within the car park floor or adjoining a driveway, they can be
exempted from gross floor area.
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5.08 Car parks

Private car parking lots which form part of a residential strata titled unit (flat,
condominium) or are used exclusively by a residential strata titled unit are counted as
GFA if they are not sited on a common car park floor. For example, private car
parking lots directly accessible from the residential strata units on the upper floors.
(see Figure 5-8 below)
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Figure 5-8 Typical floor plan – 18th floor
Car park lots which form part of a mechanized car parking system adjacent to
residential units can be treated as machinery and be excluded from GFA
computation, if it meets ALL the following criteria:
i. There should not be fixed concrete or metal floor slabs or platforms
where the cars are parked.
ii. Carpark spaces should be accessed through common areas (e.g.

staircase landing).
iii. Carpark spaces are common property managed by the MCST and not
to be strata-subdivided.
iv. Carpark spaces are used solely for car parking and are to be
annotated on plans as such.
Private car/lorry parking lots proposed within strata-titled industrial and commercial
developments are computed as GFA, and are subject to the following criteria:
i. The private parking lots are surplus parking lots over and above the
government’s mandatory requirements;
ii. The private parking lots are physically contiguous with the respective
commercial strata unit
The additional car parks provided in excess of the government’s mandatory

requirements are to be computed as gross floor area if they fall within the category
mentioned below:
(i) commercial and hotel development for new erection applications
submitted on or after 24 Feb 1999.
(ii) any amendment and/or additions and alterations applications to the

new erection proposals mentioned in a) above.
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(iii) commercial and hotel components in white sites and mixed-use
developments submitted on or after 26 Apr 2001 where the
commercial and/or hotel components form more than 20% of the total
GFA.
(iv) Any subsequent amendment and additions and alterations

applications for White sites and mixed-use developments.
The additional car parks only apply to integrated car park lots within a development
e.g. multi-storey or basement car parks which can be converted to other uses without
affecting the building bulk. However, in a development where other car park lots
(mechanised or surface car parking lots) are provided, the mechanized and surface
car park lots will be first counted to meet the government’s mandatory requirements.
Any excess car park lots, excluding mechanized and surface car parks, over and
above the government’s mandatory requirement, will be calculated as GFA.
Note: Applicant is required to submit Form DC 17 for computing the excess car park
GFA.
See Figure 5-9
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Figure 5-9 Form DC/PR 17
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5.09 Catwalk
Covered catwalk within a building constitutes gross floor area. Catwalk less than 1 m
wide provided for the maintenance purpose can be excluded from gross floor area.
See para 7.7 (ii).
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5.10 Floors
5.10.1 Perforated floors
Covered perforated floors or heavy duty mesh floor constitutes gross floor
area. Material is not a criterion for exclusion from gross floor area. See
Figure 5-10 below.
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Figure 5-10 Floor Plan
5.10.2 Intermediate floors

Intermediate load-bearing floor over toilet, lunch room, offices, bin centre,
substation & etc. in buildings with high ceiling constitutes gross floor area.
Sloping floor is not a criterion for exclusion from GFA. See Figure 5-11 below.
Figure 5-11 Section of a building
5.10.3 Floor under a pitch roof

If the height of the roof measured from the springing line to the ridge is >
1.5m, the load bearing floor under the roof, regardless of accessibility or use
(except for M&E use) is computed as GFA. See Figure 5-12 below.
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5.10.4 Floor under a raised platform

If the height of the raised platform measured from the floor to the underside of
the platform or seats is > 1.5m, such area has to be computed as GFA. For
example, raised platform in cineplexes. However, a floor with retractable
seats need to be counted once.
5.10.5 Voids
Enclosed dead space at any level (commonly annotated as void space).
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Covered enclosed space (regardless of accessibility use or height) constitutes
GFA.
Figure 5-14 Section
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5.11 Guardhouse & sentry post

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5.12 Household shelters

Household shelters constitute gross floor area. However certain areas created as a
result of these shelters are excluded from GFA. See Figure 5-15 below for area to
be included as GFA. For non-household shelter areas to be excluded from GFA,
refer to para 7.19.
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5.13 Lift Motor Room
Lift motor room constitutes GFA. See Figure 5-16 below.
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5.14 Loading and unloading platforms

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5.15 Outdoor refreshment areas (ORA)

An area demarcated outside a building meant for outdoor eating only, as an
extension of eating / drinking establishment (such as restaurant and fast-food) with
kitchen located inside the building. It constitutes gross floor area and it shall form part
of the total GFA for the development, except for those mentioned in para 5.15.1 and
5.15.2
5.15.1 ORA Located at the rooftop
The ORA use (both covered or uncovered areas) on roof tops will be
computed as GFA.
Existing buildings within Orchard and Downtown Core Planning areas with
provision of rooftop landscaping are granted additional gross floor area
(GFA), beyond the Master Plan permissible GPR. The proposed ORA should
not take up more than 50% of the overall roof space or 200sqm, whichever is
lower. An application for this incentive scheme is to be accompanied with a
landscaping proposal for the rooftop of buildings as part of their submission.
Existing buildings refer to developments that have obtained TOP as at 29
April 2009. The outdoor refreshment areas will only be allowed in
developments of compatible use (e.g commercial buildings & hotels), subject
to the prevailing landuse and development control guidelines.
The outdoor refreshment areas will only be allowed in developments of
compatible use (e.g commercial buildings & hotels), subject to the prevailing
landuse and development control guidelines. The bonus GFA scheme does
not apply to ORA use on sky terrace, which is to be computed as part of the
Master Plan maximum allowable GFA.
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The additional GFA can only be used for ORA use and will not form the future
development potential of the site upon redevelopment and the GFA will be
subject to development charge, temporary development levy or differential
premium, where applicable.
5.15.2 ORA located next to pedestrian mall level within Orchard

Planning Area
ORA located next to the Orchard pedestrian mall is computed as GFA. The
ORA GFA inclusive of the markers can be computed over and above the
approved or the total permissible GFA for the development. However, this
outdoor refreshment area shall be confined to the boundary of the subject
development and defined by markers, e.g. planters or flower pots. Umbrellas,
retractable canopies, light weight structures can be used for the ORA to add
more interest and diversity to the streetscape. The GFA for ORA at other
levels shall form part of the total GFA for the development.
The combined length of the frontage for ORA and outdoor kiosks shall not
exceed 60% of the total length of the development facade along the same
side of the road.
The GFA will be subject to development charge, temporary development levy

or differential premium, where applicable.
Each proposal will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and on the merits of

the individual proposal
5.15.3 ORA located next to pedestrian mall level along Singapore River
Promenade
ORA located along Singapore River Promenade is computed as GFA. This
outdoor refreshment area shall be confined to the boundary of the subject
development and defined by markers, e.g. planters or flower pots. Umbrellas,
retractable canopies, light weight structures can be used for the ORA to add
more interest and diversity to the streetscape.
The combined length of the frontage for ORA and outdoor kiosks shall not
exceed 60% of the total length of the development facade along the same
side of the road. The frontage guideline does not apply to the Clarke Quay
and Boat Quay Conservation areas.
As the proposals sit on state land, applicants will have to obtain the temporary
occupational licence (TOL) from SLA or its appointed agent.
Each proposal will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis and on the merits of

the individual proposal.
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5.16 Outdoor refreshment kiosk

A small structure which provides independent services with very minimum servicing
requirement. Outdoor kiosk and ORAs are encouraged to add vibrancy to a specific
area. There is no control on the size of the kiosk except for those mentioned in para
5.16.1 and 5.16.2
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5.16.1 Within Orchard Planning Area
Outdoor refreshment kiosk complements the use inside the main building.
However, it has to comply with the following:
(i) Located within the boundary of the subject development. It

does not encroach onto the safeguarded 3.0m green buffer
and areas approved for pedestrian walkways and covered
walkways. It also keeps a minimum width of 6.0m for
pedestrian path.
(ii) The size of the kiosk should not exceed the range of 30m2 –
60m2. Larger kiosks over 60m2 will be evaluated on a case by
case basis.
(iii) Maximum height of kiosk shall not exceed 6m.
(iv) Structure - light frame. Opaque panels, should not exceed

1.2m high.
(v) Opaque panels for kiosk structure, including doors and internal
partitions, shall not exceed 1.2m height. Up to 2m width, with
an additional 1m return, of the kiosk can walled with opaque
panels to conceal storage space.
(vi) GFA for the kiosk next to the pedestrian mall can be computed
over and above the total permissible GFA for the development.
(vii) The GFA will be subject to development charge, temporary

development levy or differential premium, where
applicable.
(viii) The total length of the frontage for outdoor kiosks should not
exceed 25% of the development facade along the same side of
the road.
(x) The combined length of the frontage for outdoor kiosk and
ORA should not exceed 60% of the development façade along
the same side of the road/promenade.
5.16.2 Along Singapore River Promenade

(i) The maximum allowable size of kiosk is 15m2. 600mm wide apron is
permitted if the kiosk sits on a turfed area.
(ii) Maximum height of kiosk shall not exceed 4m.
(iii) The total length of the frontage for outdoor kiosks should not exceed
25% of the development facade along the same side of the road.
(iv) The combined length of the frontage for outdoor kiosk and ORA
should not exceed 60% of the development façade along the same
side of the
road/promenade.
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(v) The frontage guideline does not apply to the Clarke Quay and Boat
Quay
Conservation areas.
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5.17 Planter boxes located within a strata unit

Planter boxes which are located within a strata unit, be it residential or other uses,
will be counted as GFA. Please cross reference to item 7.22 in the non- residential
handbook which explains the types of planter boxes that can be exempted from GFA.
You may also cross reference the external circulars dated 12 June 2014, 22 Sept
2008 and 7 Jul 2008 for more details.
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5.18 Recessed windows (Reversed of bay window)

Area under a recessed window regardless of the height of the window. It is
considered part of the internal floor plate. See Figure 5-17 below.
Figure 5-17 Section of a recessed window
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5.19 Refuse chambers

Refuse chamber regardless of height constitutes GFA.
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5.20 Staircases
The floor plate containing the staircases has to be counted once. Staircases collapse
upwards has to be counted at the upper floor plate. See Figure 5-18 below.
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Figure 5-18 Section of staircases
5.20.1 Scissor staircases

The staircases have to be counted separately i.e. if there are 2 sets of staircases,
they have to be counted twice.
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5.21 Swimming Pools

Covered swimming pool constitutes gross floor area.
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5.22 Urban Verandahs (for Orchard Planning area)

Urban Verandahs are unenclosed porch-like extensions from the front facade of
existing developments at the 2nd storey that can support outdoor refreshment areas.
They add vibrancy, variety and also enhance pedestrian connectivity by providing
sheltered connections between bus stops and the covered walkways of buildings, as
well as between buildings.
The urban verandahs must comply with the following:

(i) Maximum projection of the verandah from the building facade should
not exceed 7.5m except where it connects to an existing bus-stop. In
this case, the width of this connection should not exceed the length of
the bus-stop.
(ii) Total length of the verandah for one building should not exceed 40%
of the length of the building frontage.
(iii) Total length of frontage for outdoor kiosk and ORAs on the 1st storey,
including the area under the UV should not exceed 60%.
Urban Verandahs between developments will be allowed over and above the 40%
building frontage allowed for the verandah, subject to conditions.
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The GFA for the urban verandah can be computed over and above the approved or
the total permissible GFA for the development and is subject to payment of
development charge or differential premium, where applicable. Urban verandahs
used for commercial purposes will be counted as GFA while the non-commercial
urban verandahs forming part of the pedestrian circulation network will not be
counted as GFA.
In the event of redevelopment, owners will be allowed to provide another urban

verandah with the same quantum of GFA, provided that it is similar in spirit, concept
and objective as those set out in the guidelines. This GFA will not be transferable for
other uses elsewhere in the development.
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5.23 Void deck of residential buildings

Void deck of residential building constitutes gross floor area. This area, used
exclusively by the residents does not qualify as public spaces. The 45-degree
exemption can be applied if it is used as a communal landscaped areas, see item
6.1.
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5.24 Walls and columns

All walls and columns including those which form part of an enclosed area in car park
floors such as staircase, lobby area, service ducts are to be included in GFA
computation.
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5.25 Indoor Recreation Spaces

Indoor recreation spaces are areas that offer opportunities for greater communal
interaction among residents in a weather-proof environment.
Private non-landed residential developments and the residential component of

mixed-use developments can apply for the communal indoor recreation spaces to be
counted as bonus GFA, provided such spaces exceed 0.6% of the total GFA of the
development or 10 sqm (whichever is higher, see Figure 5-19). The bonus GFA is
capped at 1% of total GFA (or the GFA of the residential component for mixed-use
developments). If the proposed communal indoor recreation spaces do not exceed
0.6% of the total GFA of the development or 10 sqm (whichever is higher), these
spaces will be counted under the main building GFA instead of bonus GFA.
Figure 5-19 Bonus GFA for Indoor Recreation Spaces
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Examples of communal indoor recreation spaces that can qualify for this scheme
include gyms, function rooms, libraries, game rooms and reading rooms. Developers
may propose other appropriate communal indoor recreation spaces for URA’s
evaluation. These spaces are to be retained as common property of the development
and kept accessible to residents of the development. They are only to be used for
non-commercial purposes.
The indoor recreation space bonus GFA scheme will apply with immediate effect to
all development applications for new erection, amendments to approved
developments or additions and alterations (A&A) of existing private non-landed
residential developments or mixed-use developments with a residential component.
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6 Items partially counted as gross floor area
6.01 Lift lobbies in car park floors

6.02 Lift shaft
6.03 Service ducts
6.04 Covered Communal Ground Garden
6.05 Sky terraces
6 Items partially counted as gross floor area
6.01 Lift lobbies in car park floors

GFA computation is limited to an area equivalent to the size of the lift shaft or to the
actual size of the lift lobby, whichever is smaller. This is intended to provide flexibility
in design and ease of computation.
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6.02 Lift shaft

Lift shaft including the thickness of the walls are computed as GFA. They are
counted once at the 1st storey level. See Figure 6-1.
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Figure 6-1 Lift Shaft
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6.03 Service ducts
Service ducts including the thickness of the walls are computed as gross floor area.
They are counted once at the 1st storey level. Service ducts are counted once
provided the vertical space is hollow. If the service ducts starts from the 2nd storey,
the service ducts at the 2nd storey are counted as gross floor area. Service ducts
are to be counted at every level if they are slabbed over.
Non load-bearing fire-stop material to compartmentalise the service duct will not be
deemed as gross floor area.
Figure 6-2 Service duct
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6.04 Covered Communal Ground Garden
To encourage better design and integration of on-ground greenery spaces at the 1st
storey, landscaped areas at the 1st storey that are shaded by a structure or a floor or
overhang above may be exempted from GFA under these schemes
(i) Secondary Covered Communal Ground Garden

(ii) Predominant Covered Communal Ground Garden
Secondary Covered Communal Ground Garden
The maximum area to be exempted under this scheme is defined by a 45-degree line
taken from the edge of the overhead projection. The communal landscaped areas
within this 45-degree line must be unenclosed and accessible and can be used for
communal activities.
33
The communal area to be exempted from GFA should have a luxurious provision of
quality landscaping with a variety of vegetation, turfing or simulation of natural terrain.
The landscaping should enrich the identity of the communal area with elements of
nature and contribute substantially to the greenery of the environment.
To enable us to evaluate the application, the architect has to submit a landscaping plan
for URA’s consideration and any other relevant information e.g. perspectives. The
extent of the areas to be exempted from GFA is to be shown by indicating the 45-
degree line with dimensions on the 1st storey plan and sectional drawings.(figure 6-3)
34
Figure 6-3
Predominant Covered Communal Ground Garden
Additional covered spaces beyond the 45-degree line may be considered for GFA
exemption if these spaces provide substantial ground greenery with good spatial
quality
The following criteria will serve as a guide on the grant of GFA exemption for this
scheme (refer to illustration shown in Figure 6-4):
35
Figure 6-4
(i) The predominant communal ground garden should occupy a significant

portion of the ground level space. The covered garden areas should
occupy at least half of the first storey building footprint;
(ii) A minimum of 60% of the covered garden spaces proposed for GFA
exemption should be lushly landscaped. The remaining 40% of the GFA
exempted spaces can be set aside for meaningful and effective
communal gathering and activity spaces, and unenclosed communal
facilities. These spaces could include garden paths, playgrounds and
covered pool; and
(iii) In evaluating the GFA exemption for the covered landscaped areas, URA
will take into consideration the design, integration and the spatial quality
of the communal garden areas at the ground level (e.g. how the open
landscaped area is designed to flow seamlessly into the covered areas)
and its contribution towards the overall quality of the development (e.g.
the covered ground garden should be bright and airy with quality
landscaping).
36
Both the covered and uncovered landscaped area should include suitable
varieties of plants which are planted in permanent and preferably sunken planting
beds to enhance the spatial and visual quality of the space. As these communal
landscaped areas are intended to serve the public and/or building users, they
should be easily accessible to the public and/or building users during normal
opening hours for the development1. They should not be tucked away in dark or
obscure corners at the first storey which will not be conducive for landscaping as
well as public use. The GFA exemption will not be applicable to such residual
spaces at locations where users are unlikely to use meaningfully.
While uses like ORA can be proposed within the covered communal ground
gardens, the ORA areas will be computed as GFA. To prevent downstream
abuse of the GFA exempted area, appropriate design interventions should be
adopted to minimise easy conversion of the GFA exempted areas to usable
commercial spaces subsequently. The communal ground garden also should not
be easily enclosed and converted to any other uses in the future.
To enable us to evaluate the proposal, a landscape plan showing the proposed

landscaping scheme for the i) entire ground level (both covered and uncovered)
is to be submitted as part of the development application for the predominant
covered ground garden proposal. As part of the GFA exempted space in the
former scenario could be outside the 45 degree line where sunlight could be
limited, the landscape plan should include suitable plant species or a plant palette
that can thrive and sustain in the shady environment2.
NOTE:
3 Please refer to the following publications for more detailed planting references:
a) 1001 Garden plants in Singapore (2nd edition)(2006), NParks
b) CS E09:2012 - Guidelines on planting of trees, palms and tall shrubs on rooftop (2012), NParks
c) A Selection of Plants for Green Roofs in Singapore 2nd Edition (2008), NParks
d) Trees of our Garden City, 2nd edition (2009), NParks
e) Concise Guides to Safe Practices on Rooftop Greenery and Vertical greenery (2013), NParks
6.05 Sky terraces

Sky terraces are open-sided areas at the intermediate floors of a building. The floor
area of the open-sided terrace which can be excluded from gross floor area
computation, is defined by the 45-degree line taken from the underside of any
permanent or opaque structure, and not from the underside of a drop panel. See
Figure 6-5.
The 45-degree can only be applied from the external wall inwards and not from the
recessed walls. See Figure 6-6.
1 For example, the communal landscaped areas in a shopping mall should be open and accessible to the public
during the mall’s normal operating hours.
37
In granting the GFA exemption, URA will take into consideration the quality of the
landscaping and the design of the space as a communal area. The sky terrace must
satisfy the following:
(i) the sky terrace is to be lushly landscaped.

(ii) the sky terrace is used for communal activities and access to the sky
terrace must be from the common areas.
(iii) at least 40% of the perimeter wall of sky terrace must be open. See
Figure 6-7.
Landscaping*
- The sky terrace is to be lushly landscaped with a suitable variety of plants;
- The greenery on the sky terrace should be enjoyed by the building users as well
as be visible from the surrounding environment;
- Planting should be incorporated on permanent and sunken planting beds to
enhance the spatial and visual quality of the sky terrace. The sunken planting
beds should have sufficient soil depth to accommodate plants and landscaping. If
it is not possible to provide sunken planting beds due to FSSD’s fire safety
requirements, low raised planting beds at 300mm high may be provided but they
must be well landscaped and planted with trees or shrubs (i.e. no turfing allowed).
Otherwise, they will be treated as habitable spaces for determining fire safety
requirements.
Communal usage*
- The sky terrace should be as meaningful and effective communal gathering and
activity spaces.
- The sky terrace must be accessible to all occupants of the building and there
should be at least one set of communal access via a lift or staircase serving the
sky terrace. Secondary access to the sky terrace from strata units can be
supported.
- The sky terrace should be of a meaningful size and configuration to facilitate
communal usage. As a guide, the proposed depth of the sky terrace should be at
least 5m.
- For sky terraces in residential developments that occupy less than 60% of the floor
plates, the sky terraces should serve a minimum of 2 strata units to ensure that they
remain as communal space.
* A Landscape Plan and relevant sections for the sky terrace showing the proposed
landscaping scheme and communal facilities is to be submitted as part of the
development application. (See Sample in Figure 6-8)
Drop Panel
In order to ensure that sky terraces still appear as lofty and voluminous spaces that
provide effective visual relief to the façade of a development from the surrounding
area, the drop panels within the 45 degree line shall be subject to the following:
(a) The drop panel shall be a maximum of 1/3rd of the height of the
external opening (see Figure 6.6); and
(b) The drop panel shall be visually transparent and may be in the form of
louvres, fins, transparent glass, or other sun shading/weather
protective devices. Drops panels of solid or opaque façade elements
will not qualify for such GFA exemption.
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Additional Residual GFA for Sky Terraces outside 45- degree line
On top of the GFA exemption defined by the 45-degree line, additional residual GFA,
subject to a cap of 20% of the area of the floor plate, that form part of the sky terrace
but fall outside the 45-degree line can be exempted from gross floor area
computation subject to the following criteria:
(a) The sky terrace areas within the 45-degree line must occupy at least
60% of the foor plate. The remaining 40% (max) of the floor plate can
be used for ancillary/complementary uses.
(b) The residual area (outside 45- degree line) eligible for GFA exemption
under the revised guidelines must form an integral part of the sky
terrace, which must remain unenclosed, communal and non-
commercial in nature. Residual areas which serve as corridor spaces
to residential units, commercial units or other ancillary/ complementary
areas will not qualify for GFA exemption.
(c) The At least 60% of the perimeter of the sky terrace floor should be
kept open with low wall.
See Figure 6-9 and 6-10.

Sky terraces occupying less than 60% of the floor plate can continue to enjoy the
current GFA exemption based on the 45-degree line. The additional 20% GFA
exemption for the residual areas would not apply in such cases. See Figure 6-11.
Corridors provided within 45-degree line contiguous to Sky Terrace
GFA exemption can be granted for the barrier-free access and fire-escape corridors
located within the 45 degree line subject to the following:
a) The corridor serves both the sky terrace and the ancillary/complementary uses.
b) The sky terrace areas within the 45-degree line must occupy at least 60% of the
floor plate.
c) At least 60% of the perimeter of the sky terrace must not be enclosed.
All corridors provided outside 45-degree line are to be computed as GFA. See figure
6-12
Plan presentation for GFA computation
To facilitate the evaluation of whether GFA exemption is applicable for sky terraces
proposed, the following are required to be incorporated in the Calculation Floor Plan
and Sectional Drawings:
(i) the extent of the areas to be exempted by indicating the 45-degree

line with dimensions;
(ii) computation details for the residual area and the extent of perimeter
opening (at least 60 % must be opened); and
39
(iii) the sky terrace areas that are within the 45-degree line and the
residual areas are to be clearly illustrated and annotated as shown in
Figure 6-13.
The above detailed plans/sections supplement the landscape plan.
Figure 6-5 Sky terrace
40
Figure 6-6 Plan of a sky terrace
Note:
45 degree can be applied from the external wall inwards as illustrated by the arrows provided the perimeter wall is
open sided. 45 degrees cannot be applied from the recessed walls marked with a cross.
41
Figure 6-7 Sky Terrace - Plan showing how the % of perimeter wall is
computed
42
43
Figure 6-8: Example of a landscaping plan
Figure 6-9: Plan illustrating the concept of residual GFA exemption
44
Figure 6-10 – Sample computation (I) of GFA exemption
Figure 6-11 – Sample computation (II) of GFA exemption
45
Figure A: A Predominant Sky terrace occupying more than 60% of floor plate
Corridor located within the 45 degree line, can be exempted from GFA
computation.
Figure B: Sky terrace occupying less than 60% of floor plate
Corridor is to be computed as GFA.
Figure 6-12 – GFA exemption of corridor areas at sky terrace floor
46
Figure 6-13 – Detail calculations for sky terrace at 6th storey plan (Not to Scale)
Figure 6-14 – 45-degree line to be shown in Section A-A (Not to Scale)

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7 Items not counted as gross floor area
7.01 Aesthetic mouldings

7.02 AHU
7.03 Balancing tank
7.04 Basement diaphragm walls

7.05 Bin point
7.06(i) Cable chambers
7.06(ii) Catwalk not exceeding 1m wide
7.07 Car parks and car park floors
7.08 Curtain wall or cladding system
7.09 Driveways
7.10 Drop-off point
7.11 Entrance canopy/main entrance
7.12 Ledges
7.13 Letter boxes
7.14 Linkages
7.15 Loading & unloading bay
7.16 M&E spaces
7.17 Meter compartment
7.18 Non household shelters
7.19 Ornamental pond/Reflective pool
7.20 Pavilions
7.21 Perforated structures
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7.22 Planter boxes (within non-residential developments, or within communal areas
of residential developments)
7.23 Pump rooms with less than 1.5m headroom
7.24 Rainwater holding tanks
7.25 Racking system
7.26 Refuse chute
7.27 Roof covers to screen roof top services
7.28 Roof eaves & sun shading devices
7.29 Communal Roof Terraces
7.30 Shadow areas

7.31 Staircases
7.32 Structural protrusion from building wall line
7.33 Unroofed staircases to ESS
7.34 Metal ceiling grids within indoor performance venues
7.35 Privately Owned Public Spaces
7.36 Bicycle Parking Spaces and End-of-Trip Facilities
7 Items not counted as gross floor area
7.01 Aesthetic mouldings

Aesthetic mouldings are architectural features or ornamental mouldings to express a
particular style or to enhance the facade of the building. These features are purely
decorative. For example; cornice.
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7.02 AHU
AHU suspended and supported by metal brackets or beams within voids. They are
regarded as equipment and not structures per se.
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7.03 Balancing tank
Balancing tank are akin to water tank.
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7.04 Basement diaphragm walls
Basement diaphragm walls inclusive of the basement walls are built along the
periphery of the site and are usually required to meet structural conditions in
basements.
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7.05 Bin point
Bin point at gate post.
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7.06 (i) Cable chambers
For standalone electric substation or substation that is located away from the main
building, the following must be satisfied:
(a) if the height of the cable chamber, measured from the floor to the
underside of the upper floor, is less than or equal to 2.0m or
(b) if the combined height (a + b) as shown in Figure 7-2 below does not
exceed 4.5m for residential, 5.0m for commercial or 6.0m for
warehouse development, the cable chamber can be excluded from
GFA.
If the electric substation is integrated within the main building, the height of the cable
chamber, is allowed to exceed 2.0m subject to a maximum 2.5m. See Figure 7-3
below.
The 2.0m height includes the structural beams. The cable chamber has to be
computed as gross floor area if it deviates from the above guidelines.
Fig 7-2 Cable chamber
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Figure 7-3 Cable chamber
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7.06(ii) Catwalk not exceeding 1m wide

Catwalk for maintenance purposes.
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7.07 Car parks and car park floors

Generally, car parks are excluded from gross floor area computation. Please refer to
item 5.5 for exceptions.
7.07.1 Car porch and garages in landed housing

The exemption strictly applies to parking spaces and do not apply to
terrace/patios and other areas adjoining the car porches/garages which are
not used for car parking.
7.07.2 Car park floors – Left over spaces or residual spaces
This refers to all left over spaces like pedestrian walkways, pavements,
planting boxes and residual areas (including areas enclosed on 3 sides
regardless of shape or size) arising from the layout of parking lots. *The
residual area is incapable of accommodating an additional car park lot (see
Figure 7.4).
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M&E spaces enclosed by chain-link fencing or low parapet wall will not be
counted as gross floor area. However, area enclosed by chain-link fencing
for storage purposes (other than M&E equipment & water tank), enclosed
staircases, loading/unloading platforms, stores, toilets, lift lobbies are to be
counted as gross floor area.
*Pure Car Park Floors

i. For pure car park floors, corridors with a maximum of 3 sides enclosed
that lead directly from the carpark to the lift lobby can be considered
as residual car park area (figure 7.5);
ii. Areas within pure car park floors that have a concentration of columns
that render parts of the car park floor unusable can be considered
residual and exempted from GFA (Figure 7.6). However, this design is
discouraged because it is not considered optimal.
*Car Park Floors Integrated with Other Uses

i. For a floor containing part car park integrated with other uses e.g.
residential units, commercial shops/offices, etc, the car park floor area
should be clearly carved out from the non-parking area (see Figure
7.7);
ii. Corridors within integrated car park floors that lead to other areas of
the main building will not be considered residual and shall be
computed under the main building use GFA (Figure 7.7a);
iii. Areas within integrated car park floors that have a concentration of
columns and do not contain car parks or vehicular circulation area will
be evaluated on a case-by-case basis to confirm whether the area is
to be considered residual and qualify for GFA exemption.
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Figure 7-4: Residual areas incapable of a accommodating additional car park
lot
Figure 7-5: Corridors leading from car park to lift lobbies in pure car park
floors
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Figure 7-6: Areas with large concentration of columns on pure car park floors
that renders the space unusable
Figure 7-7: To demarcate car park area from other non-car park areas on the
same floor
Figure 7-7a: Corridors leading to other non-car park areas on mixed use
floors to be computed as GFA
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7.08 Curtain wall or cladding system

For buildings with curtain wall or cladding systems fixed onto the main structure, the
gross floor area shall be measured up to edge of the main structural floor slab.
However, if there are external walls, the gross floor area shall be measured up to the
thickness of the external walls excluding the curtain wall or cladding systems.
See Figure 7-8 below
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Figure 7-8 Curtain wall/Cladding
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7.09 Driveways
Driveways are treated as part of the vehicle circulation area.
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7.10 Drop-off point

Drop-off point can be excluded from GFA.
7.10.1 Covered leftover landscaped communal space at the 1st storey created
by the driveway or drop-off point
These are covered leftover spaces that are created due to the layout of the
driveway or drop-off point. However, these areas must be communal areas
and be landscaped. See Figure 7-9 below.
Figure 7-9 Cover Landscaped area
7.11 Entrance canopy/main entrance

Only one main entrance is exempted from gross floor area computation. If there are
more than one entrance, the second and subsequent entrances have to be included
in the gross floor area computation.
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7.12 Ledges
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7.12.1 Air-conditioner ledges
Air-conditioner ledges, including L-shaped a/c ledges not exceeding 1m wide,
as measured perpendicularly from the external wall, are excluded from GFA.
This also applies to the situations illustrated below, where the a/c ledges may
project more than 1m at the corner, as measured from the wall.
For a/c ledges exceeding 1m width, the entire area is computed as GFA. This
is to ensure that a/c ledges are used for the sole purpose of supporting a/c
equipment and not as extended ledges that may be converted later to liveable
area (e.g. balcony, room extension).
Figure 7-10 Air-conditioner Ledges
7.12.2 Firemen’s ledge

Firemen’s ledge is defined as reinforced concrete plate outside the building
without any railing or parapet wall. The firemen’s ledge must not exceed 1.4m
wide for residential development and 1.0m wide for non-residential
development. For firemen’s ledge exceeding 1.4m wide or 1.0m wide for
residential development and non-residential development respectively, the
additional area has to be counted as GFA.
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7.12.3 RC ledge (for sunshading purpose only)
This exemption strictly applies to RC ledge located on the external façade of
the building and is not applicable to internal void space/courtyard.
RC ledge is defined as reinforced concrete plate outside the building without

any railing or parapet wall. The RC ledge must not exceed 2.0m. For RC
ledge exceeding 2.0m wide, the area to be excluded from GFA can be
allowed up to 2.0m. The remaining portion has be counted as GFA. The
same method is applied to area exempted under the roof eaves.
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7.13 Letter boxes

Unenclosed letter boxes in car park floors.
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7.14 Linkages
To enhance design flexibility in providing more pedestrian thoroughfares and
linkages for ease of pedestrian movement, covered walkways, footways and linkways
can be excluded from gross floor area computation.
7.14.1 First storey
7.14.1.1 Covered public footway/walkway

(i) Covered footway/walkway abutting existing or
proposed roads at the 1st storey level only
(ii) Covered footway/walkway facing any existing or

proposed public road, public pedestrian mall, public
open space/landscaped area or which links 2 public
areas. The footway or walkway is required by the
Competent Authority or other Government agencies
and is to be kept open at all times for public use as part
of the public pedestrian network.
7.14.1.2 Covered linkways

(i) Open sided linkways incorporated as part of
landscaping area.
(ii) Linkways that connects one building to another and do

not form part of the main building.
7.14.1.3 Through-block pedestrian linkages

The following criteria must be satisfied.
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(i) The link must run through a building block and directly
connect two parcels of public areas i.e. main road
(exclude service road and backlane), public pedestrian
promenade /mall and public open space/landscaped
area.
(ii) In each building only one through-block pedestrian link

is allowed. The link must give a through view of the
pedestrian route from one end to the other.
(iii) The internal clear width of link should be more than 4m

and less than 7m.
(iv) Changes in the floor levels of the linkage shall be

accommodated by ramps.
(v) The link must be kept open at all times for public use.
Clear and prominent signages with minimum size of
4m2 are to be displayed above the entrances to inform
the public that the linkage is open 24 hours for
pedestrian circulation.
See Figures 7-11 below.
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Figure 7-11 Through-block pedestrian links
7.14.2 Upper level linkages

7.14.2.1 High level pedestrian linkages between different developments
They must satisfy the following:
(i) The link must connect two common public areas at upper
floors of different developments and be used strictly for
circulation only.
(ii) The link must span across minor road. However, the link that
span across development boundary can also be considered.
(iii) The internal clear width of the link should be more than 4.0m
and less than 7.0m.
(iv) The link must be open during normal business operation hours
for public use as part of the public pedestrian network. The
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link should be directly accessible via lifts and/or staircases
from the 1st storey public lobby.
See Figure 7-12 below.
Figure 7-12 2nd storey and high level pedestrian link
7.14.2.2 Communal sky bridge between different buildings in a single

development
The communal sky bridges linking blocks within a single development must
satisfy the following criteria:
(i) The sky bridge must connect two communal areas within the
development.
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(ii) The sky bridge should form part of the communal circulation
network within the development.
(iii) No part of the sky bridge shall be rented out or form part of any
strata unit.
Figure 7-13 Communal sky bridges linking within a development
7.14.2.3 Elevated pedestrian linkages within developments that are

identified as key connections under the Jurong Gateway Elevated
Pedestrian Network (EPN) Plan
To qualify for GFA exemption, the elevated walkways will be subject to the
following guidelines:
a. The clear width of the walkways shall be a minimum of either 5m or
6m, as shown in the Jurong Gateway EPN Plan. Elevated walkways
exceeding the required widths may be considered for GFA exemption
on the merits of the case, and will be evaluated in relation to the
detailed proposal at the development application stage;
b. Vertical circulation points that connect the EPN with the at-grade
pedestrian network shall be provided along the EPN at locations
shown in the Jurong Gateway EPN Plan, via stairs, lifts and/or
escalators;
c. The walkway shall be open and accessible to the public during the
opening hours of the MRT. Portions of the EPN which also function as
public pedestrian overhead bridges (POB) across public roads are
required to be accessible to the public at all times;
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d. The internal walkway route within the building that links the connection
points with adjacent buildings shall be as direct as possible. A winding
internal walkway route that is provided with the intention of maximising
pedestrian flow to retail or other commercial uses for commercial
considerations will be considered to be an internal corridor space and
will not qualify for GFA exemption. The layout of the proposed
walkway will be subject to URA’s evaluation for purpose of GFA
exemption at the development application stage;
e. The walkway shall be used strictly for pedestrian circulation purpose
only. Commercial uses are not allowed within the walkway; and
f. Clear and prominently displayed signage is to be provided at the
entrances of the elevated walkways within developments to inform
pedestrians that they are accessible for public use. Adequate signage
along the EPN is to be provided to guide pedestrians to the MRT
Station and other key developments along the EPN. Detailed
requirements for the way-finding signage to be included along the
EPLs are available in the J-Walk Signage Guidelines, and can be
found online at LTA’s Architectural Standards website. The proposed
locations and designs of the way-finding signage shall be included in
the development applications to URA, and submitted to the
Development and Building Control Division of LTA (email: lta-
[email protected]) for approval.
7.14.3 Underground
7.14.3.1 Underground pedestrian links to rapid transit system (RTS) stations
As the underground pedestrian links function as a public thoroughfare, the
floor area of the underground pedestrian walkway can be exempted from the
gross floor area computation if the following criteria are satisfied.
The underground pedestrian link will have a clear pedestrian walkway width
of:
(i) Between 6m - 7m for walkway with single-loaded uses; or
(ii) A minimum width of 7m for walkway with double-loaded uses.

For walkways that are greater than 7m wide, the exemption is
given up to 7m only.
See Figure below.
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Figure 7-14 Schematics sections of underground pedestrian links to rapid
transit system (RTS) stations
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7.15 Loading & unloading bay

Loading and unloading bay is excluded from gross floor area computation. However,
loading and unloading platform has to be included in the gross floor area
computation.
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7.16 M&E spaces
7.16.1 M&E floors with limited headroom(< 1.5m)

M&E floors with 1.5m or less headroom can be excluded from gross floor
area computation. The height of the M&E floor is measured from the floor to
the underside of the upper floor. See illustration below. False or suspended
ceiling cannot be deemed as the upper floor. M&E floors with headroom >
1.5m constitute gross floor area. For M&E floors with varying headroom i.e.
the height of the headroom varies from below 1.5m to exceeding 1.5m, the
entire floor would be computed as gross floor area.
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Figure 7-15 M & E floor
7.16.2 M&E floor for commercial and hotel buildings which make use of the
rooftop guidelines in 7.29
To complement the objective to encourage good roof design, some activity-
generating (e.g. F&B) and sustainability-related uses (e.g. rooftop urban farms4,
communal roof gardens, extensive green roofs5, solar panels) on the rooftop of new
commercial and hotel developments, or redevelopments / major Additions and
Alterations for the same, are encouraged under the following guidelines:
i. To allow the rooftop M&E services to be transferred from the roof to one of
the top three floors directly below the roof (see Figure 7-15.1). Any remaining
M&E services such as lift motor rooms, should be clustered and neatly
integrated with roof design so that more of the roof can be used for other
purposes..
ii. To exempt from GFA computation the covered M&E areas up to one floor
only. Activity-generating F&B uses at the rooftop will constitute GFA. The roof
area occupied by urban farms 6 , solar panels, extensive green roofs and
communal roof gardens that remain uncovered will not constitute GFA.
iii. The GFA exemption for M&E floors will not apply to commercial and hotel
developments that share common boundaries with residential developments,
where activity generating uses are not allowed at the rooftops. Sustainability-
related uses proposed will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
iv. For commercial and hotel developments that are in close proximity to
residential developments, such as across the road, sustainability-related and
4
Rooftop urban farms come in various forms, ranging from smaller scale community-based farming activity and
edible gardens, to larger-scale, highly intensive farming activities conducted on a commercial basis.
5 Extensive green roofs are generally not designed for accessibility and active recreational use. Such roofs are
mainly for ecological and aesthetic benefits and are installed at inaccessible rooftops. They are usually lightweight
systems comprising low maintenance plants.
6
Covered urban farm area will be allowed on Temporary Permission and counted as GFA. Incidental covered spaces
under solar panels put to landscaping will not constitute GFA.
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activity-generating uses at the rooftops will be evaluated on a case by case
basis.
Activity-generating and
sustainability-related uses
allowed at Roof Level,
including:
- Rooftop urban farms
- Solar panels
- Communal roof gardens
- Extensive green roofs
- F&B-related uses
Figure 7-15.1 TRANSFER OF THE M&E SERVICES FROM THE ROOFTOP TO

ONE OF THE TOP 3 FLOORS FOR COMMERCIAL AND HOTEL
DEVELOPMENTS
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7.17 Meter compartment

Meter compartment integrated within the gate post.
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7.18 Non household shelters

The part of the household shelter core that extends to the building foundation is not
counted as gross floor area. Refer to Non-GFA (C) in illustration. If the r.c. slab is
located at an intermediate level between floors then it is not counted as GFA. Refer
to Non-GFA (A) in illustration. If the r.c. slab is located at the roof level then it is not
counted as GFA. Refer to Non-GFA (B) in illustration.
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Figure 7-16 Non Household shelters
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7.19 Ornamental pond/Reflective pool

Covered ornamental pond/reflective pool which forms part of the communal
landscaped deck at the 1st storey. Area to be exempted is delineated by the 45
degree line taken from the edge of the floor or overhang above the landscaped deck.
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7.20 Pavilions
1. To encourage more communal usage of space & greenery provision,
communal pavilions at ground level and rooftop can be exempted from GFA
but they must satisfy the following criteria:
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S/N ITEM GUIDELINES
7.20.1 Communal Pavilions at Ground level / 1st Storey
I Use a. No commercial use;
b. Open-sided, single-storey pavilions (BBQ pit

facilities may be provided).
Note:
Any pavilion for commercial use, if allow, the pavilion
and the open area around it will be counted as GFA.
Pavilions in landed housing developments do not

qualify for GFA exemption.
II Size Residential Non-Residential

a. Max. 50sqm per a. Max. 50sqm per
pavilion*; pavilion*.
b. Subject to 40%
(max) overall site
coverage control
*The area is defined as the area of pavilion measured

up to the roof eaves.
7.20.2 Communal Pavilions at Rooftop
I Use a. To be evaluated on a case-by-case basis
subject to the use not causing disamenity to
the surrounding developments;
b. No commercial use.
Note:
If the pavilion is proposed for commercial use, the
pavilion and the open area around it will be counted
as GFA. See details in 5.13.1
Pavilions in landed housing developments do not

II Size Residential Non-Residential

*Max 50sqm or 50% of *Max 500sqm or 50%
roof coverage, of roof coverage,
whichever is lower. whichever is lower.
*The area is defined as the area of pavilion measured
up to the roof eave
III Height Single-storey, height less than 6 m with non-load

bearing roof cover. See Figure 7-17
IV Enclosure a. The pavilion can be open sided or partially

enclosed provided the enclosed portion shall
not exceed 50% of the pavilion’s perimeter.
See Figure 7-18
b. It can also be partially attached to the main
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S/N ITEM GUIDELINES
building provided the attachment is less than
50% of the pavilion’s perimeter. See Figure
7-19
c. For developments which have reached the

allowable storey height control, the pavilions
should remain open-sided as viewed from the
external façade.
V Access Access from communal areas only.
VI Greenery Provision a. The proposed landscaping should address

the following objectives:
(i) The rooftop is to be lushly landscaped

with a good variety of plants;
(ii) The greenery on the rooftop should
be enjoyed by the building users as
well as be visible from the
surrounding environment;
(iii) Planting should be incorporated on
permanent and preferably sunken
planting beds, planned with sufficient
soil depth to accommodate the types
of plants proposed. If it is not possible
to provide sunken planting beds due to
FSSD’s fire safety requirements, low
raised planting beds at 300mm high
may be provided but they must be well
landscaped and planted with trees or
shrubs (i.e. no turfing allowed).
Otherwise, they will be treated as
habitable spaces for determining fire
safety requirements.
b. Section drawings on the proposed planting

areas, are to be submitted. (See sample in
Figure 7-19.1).
2. Where the layout and size of the communal pavilions on the ground level &
rooftop deviate from the size stated in the Table above, URA will assess the
proposal and exercise flexibility based on individual merits and site context.
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Communal pavilion area not
counted as GFA
Accessible from common

area only
Total pavilion areas

subject to size control in
Appendix 1, item (B) II
Plan View
Non-load bearing
roof cover
Free-standing, single storey

Structure
Accessible from common

area only
Section View
Figure 7-17 ROOFTOP COMMUNAL PAVILIONS
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Figure 7-18 A FREE STANDING PAVILION WITH 50% PERIMETER
ENCLOSURE
Note: For developments which have reached the allowable storey height control, the
pavilions should remain open-sided as viewed from the external façade.
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Figure 7-19 A ROOFTOP PAVILION ATTACHED TO THE MAIN BUILDING
WITH 50% PERIMETER ENCLOSURE
Note: For developments which have reached the allowable storey height control, the
pavilions should remain open-sided as viewed from the external façade.
EXAMPLE OF A LANDSCAPE PLAN
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LEGEND DESCRIPTION PHOTOG SOID DEPTH TERMINAL CANOPY
RAPH (MM) HT (MM) DIAMETER
where (MM)
applicable where applicable
Tree - (Name of the proposed tree species )
Tree - (Name of the proposed tree species )
Palm - (Name of the proposed palm species

)
Shrub - (Name of the proposed shrub

species )
Ground Cover - (Name of the proposed

ground cover species )
Description of Paving Material
Description of Paving Material
Figure 7-19.1 LANDSCAPE PLAN

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7.21 Perforated structures
All covered perforated structures (including the area covered by the perforated
structures) will be considered as GFA, except for perforated metal catwalk or
platform that does not exceed 1m in width. For such perforated metal catwalk or
platform, the catwalk/platform will not be considered GFA if the width does not
exceed 1m.
7.22 COMMUNAL PLANTER BOXES WITHIN ALL DEVELOPMENTS
(a) Cantilevered communal planter boxes within all developments can be

excluded from gross floor area computation, subject to the following
criteria:
(i) Maximum width of 1m width.

(ii) Maximum 500 mm depth (for planting purpose)
(iii) They shall be sufficiently externalized
(b) The objective of granting GFA exemption for such planter boxes is to
encourage the provision of skyrise greenery which contributes to
improving the quality of life for the city. URA will consider communal
planter boxes which are more than 1 metre wide for GFA exemption if
the wider planter boxes are part of an overall scheme designed to
enhance greenery provision for the development. Applicants applying
for the GFA exemption will have to justify the merits of their design and
demonstrate how they will maintain the landscaping.
(c) Therefore, while low-height railings can be provided for safety

purposes (as shown in Figure 7-20), internalized planter boxes, or
those which are provided behind full-height screening cannot be
exempted from GFA computation since they do not meet the intended
objective. Figure 7-21 and 7-22 illustrate examples which cannot
(d) There will also be no partial GFA exemption granted for planter boxes.
For planter boxes that exceed 1m width, or do not satisfy the minimum
500mm depth, the entire area will be computed as GFA (see Figure 7-
23). This is to ensure that planter boxes are used solely for planting
purposes and not as an extended area, that may be converted later to
other usable floor space.
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Figure 7-20 Examples of allowable planter box configurations
Example (1): Fully screened planter boxes do not qualify for GFA exemption
(see Figure 7-21 below)
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Figure 7-21 Fully-screened planter boxes
Example (2): Internalized planter boxes (inward facing planters proposed

within a recessed area of the building) do not qualify for GFA exemption:
Figure 7-22 Internalized planter boxes
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Figure 7-23 Planter Boxes
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7.23 Pump rooms with less than 1.5m headroom

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7.24 Rainwater holding tanks

Rainwater holding tanks buried in the ground. This includes underground tank and
water tanks.
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7.25 Racking system

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7.26 Refuse chute

Only the hollow space is exempted from GFA. However, it has to be counted once
similar to a service duct if it does not end at a bin chamber.
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7.27 Roof covers to screen roof top services

The provision of roof covers to screen off unsightly rooftop services would be
exempted from gross floor area computation. To qualify for exemption, it must satisfy
the following:
(i) The cover must be non-load bearing and rest on the springing line or
spring from the main roof.
(ii) The covered area must house the M&E and other service equipment.
Besides pitched roofs and other non-load bearing roof, other tightly enclosed non-
usable space at the ceiling level would be similarly exempted. See Figure 7-24
below.
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Figure 7-24 Rooftop Covers
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7.28 Roof eaves & sun shading devices
7.28.1 Roof eaves and sun shading devices located below 6th storey
For area shadowed by the roof eaves and sun shading devices located below
6th storey for all types of developments, only 2m of the shadowed area can be
excluded from gross floor area and site coverage computation if the features
comply with the following conditions:
(i) The roof eaves and sun shading devices shall be column-free
and shall not be accessible except for maintenance purposes
only (the QP is to declare this on the proposal plans).
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(ii) The roof eaves and sun shading devices has to comply with
the setback guidelines from the common boundaries of the
development, as follows:
(a) 1.0m for landed housing in non-GCBAs, 1.6m for

landed housing within GCBAs.
(b) 2.0m for non-landed residential developments and non-

residential developments.
(iii) For roof eaves and sun shading devices facing public roads
shall be allowed within the physical buffer but not within green
buffer. This is allow sunlight and rain to reach the plants grown
in the green buffer.
(iv) The owner of the development shall comply with the Written
Permission condition to take appropriate measures to prevent
spillage of rainwater to the neighbouring sites arising from the
roof eaves and sun-shading devices.
Figure 7-25 Roof eaves exemption
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Figure 7-26 Roof eaves exemption
7.28.2 Roof eaves and sun shading devices located at the 6th storey and
above
For area shadowed by the roof eaves and sun shading devices located at the
6th storey and above for all types of developments, the entire area will not be
computed as gross floor area and site coverage if it satisfies the conditions (i)
– (iv) stated in item 7.28.1 above.
See Figure below.
Figure 7-27 Roof eaves and sun-shading devices located at the 6th storey and above
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7.29 Communal Roof Terraces
Communal roof terraces are open to sky areas managed by the MCST which serve
to provide landscaping and communal facilities for residents in the development.
They are not counted as GFA. However, covered or enclosed features within these
areas will be counted as GFA.
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7.30 Shadow areas

Shadow areas under building projections e.g. a/c ledge, firemen’s or reinforced
concrete (RC) ledge, planter box, bay window, balcony, design feature, structural
projection (platform or decking), sunshading devices can be excluded from gross
floor area subject to the following:
7.30.1 Shadow area cast by building projections from the building facade,
which are located below the 6th storey
The shadow area up to 2.0m only, measured from the building façade can be
excluded from gross floor area computation. See Figure 7-28 below.
Figure 7-28 Shadow area below building projections located below 6th storey
7.30.2 Shadow area cast by any structure which are located on the 6th storey
and above
The entire shadow area can be excluded from gross floor area computation.
See 7-29 below.
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Figure 7-29 Shadow area cast by any structure which are located on the 6th
storey and above
7.30.3 The shadow area cast by the structure projections could fall on flat
ground, sloping ground or , communal area on the ground
However, the shadow area must not fall within a walled-up enclosed space
and balcony area. The shadow area must be column free. See Figure 7-30
below.
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Figure 7-30 Shadow area below building projections - for projections located
at 6th storey or above
7.30.4 Sloping ground

Shadow areas on existing undulating sloping terrain or sloping ground below
building structures, platform or deck can be excluded from gross floor area
computation. To qualify for exemption, the exempted shadow areas cannot be
enclosed on the sides. See Figure 7-31 below.
Figure 7-31 shadow area on sloping ground below building or platform/deck
7.30.5 Gondola platform at roof top
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Shadow area cast by roof top level gondola platforms. See Figure 7-32
below.
Figure 7-32 Shadow area below roof top gondola platform
7.30.6 Elevated linkway
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Shadow area cast by link bridges or elevated linkway. See Figure 7-33 below.
Figure 7-33 Shadow area below elevated linkways
7.30.7 Shadow area of columns within the 45-degree line

See illustration below
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Figure 7-34 Shadow area of columns within the 45-degree line
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7.31 Staircases
The floor plate containing the staircase has to be counted once. Staircases collapses
upwards has to be counted at the upper floor plate.
7.31.1 Staircases – intermediate staircase

Staircases at intermediate levels that is not connected to any floor can be
excluded from gross floor area. However, staircases within a floor though not
accessible to that particular floor has to be computed as gross floor area.
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Figure 7-35 Intermediate staircase
7.31.2 Staircases – connecting floors with high floor-to-floor height

For residential blocks that proposed high void deck which is counted as
multiple virtual floors (see Figure 7-35a). Such a design takes advantage of
the higher aggregated building height as the virtual floors are proposed as
additional floors to the real habitable floors. The staircases connecting from
the ground to the lowest accessible floor (say on 4th storey) are often
proposed as intermediate staircases with GFA exemption.
For purpose of GFA exemption, an intermediate staircase shall connect

between consecutive floors (e.g. 1st to 2nd storey, see Figure 7-35b).
However, flights that connect between 1st to 4th storey with a virtual floors in
between will not be exempted from GFA, even if there is no access to the in-
between "virtual" storeys (Figure 7-35a).
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Figure 7-35a: Staircases connecting virtual floors not intermediate staircase
Figure 7-35b: Intermediate staircase
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7.31.3 Staircases - Uncovered external perforated staircases
All uncovered external perforated staircases, regardless of materials, will be
counted as GFA, except where such staircases serve industrial or warehouse
developments.
For pure industrial/warehouse developments, uncovered external mild steel
perforated staircases can be allowed and be excluded from gross floor area
computation provided the development already provides a covered internal
staircase to serve users of the building. In addition, if the width of the
uncovered external mild steel perforated staircase is more than 1m, the
developer would be required to provide an undertaking not to cover up the
external staircase subsequently. The width of the external staircase includes
the staircase landings. See Figure 7-36 on how the width of the external
staircase is measured.
Fig 7-36 Uncovered external perforated staircase width of staircase = w
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7.32 Structural protrusion from building wall line

Non-GFA building features can be allowed to be extended from the building wall line
to meet different needs. These features were intended to be short appendages to the
external building wall and not extensive overhangs. As such, the intent has always
been to measure the GFA-exempted distance of these building projections from the
building wall for the purpose of GFA exemption.
In situations where one feature is “added” on to another feature, the width of

projection of these structures should be measured from the building wall line. If the
proposed feature as measured from the wall line exceeds the dimension prescribed
for GFA exemption, it would not qualify for any GFA exemption. See Figure 7-37 and
detailed footnote below.
Figure 7-37: Cross section showing an example where there is more than 1
structural protrusion from the building wall line
The width of the projection of each GFA exemption item measured from the external
building line cannot exceed the max allowable width, otherwise the entire item would
not qualify for GFA exemption.
For example, if the maximum allowable width of GFA exeption item 2 is 1m, then x
shall not exceed 1m in order for it to qualify for GFA exemption.
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7.33 Unroofed staircases to ESS

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7.34 Metal ceiling grids within indoor performance venues

Metal ceiling grids which are proposed directly above the stage area within indoor
performance venues can be exempted from GFA, as these grids are an integral part
of performance stage design and are used for placement of audio, visual and stunt
equipment for the performances (see Figure 7-38 below)
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Figure 7-38: Metal ceiling grids within indoor performance venues
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7.35 Privately Owned Public Spaces (POPS)

As part of URA’s efforts to improve the quality of public spaces, including those in
private developments, first-storey covered public spaces can be exempted from GFA
under the Privately Owned Public Spaces (POPS) scheme.
The entire covered area dedicated for public space can be excluded from GFA
computation if they satisfy the urban design, operational, and eligibility guidelines
spelt out below.
PARAMETERS DETAILS
1 Urban Design 1. Size & Configuration
Guidelines • The public space area should be large enough to
improve the amenity of the local area and serve as
a meaningful space for users. As a guide, the
public space area should be at least:-
o 1sqm for every 50sqm of total development
GFA; or
o 25% of the 1st storey built footprint.
• Covered public spaces should have high volume
of at least 2 storeys or an appropriate height in
proportion to its size.
• At least 75% of the total public space area should
consist of a contiguous space which is regular in
shape, subject to detailed evaluation.
2. Access & Location

• The public space should be located at the first
storey with a frontage onto a major street or
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pedestrian thoroughfare.
• The public space frontage should be open and
unobstructed to allow for easy pedestrian access
and be highly visible from the adjoining street or
pedestrian thoroughfare.
• The access and circulation within the public space
should be barrier-free and comply with BCA’s
universal design guidelines.
3. Public Seating & Amenities

• Public seating should be provided. The minimum
requirement is:-
o 1 seat/20sqm of public space area
(1m of bench/ledge = 2 seats)
• A variety of seating to cater to different users, age
groups and physical abilities is encouraged, e.g.
seats with back and arm rests are highly
encouraged to cater to the elderly; movable seats
to allow for interaction, etc.
• The public space may include other amenities to
encourage public use of the space, such as:
o Design Features: Public Art, Water
Features;
o Furniture + Equipment: Tables,
Play/Exercise Equipment, Built-in Lighting
and Audio Equipment for events; and
o Services: Drinking Fountains, Wi-Fi
Connection, Phone Charging Points.
4. Shade
• The public space should be well shaded to
encourage public use throughout the day.
• Shade can be provided by integration within the
building form, by adjacent buildings, trees,
canopies/pergolas, adjustable umbrellas/awnings,
and/or landscape elements.
• The material used to provide shade must not
result in additional heat retention in the public
space.
• Sun shadow study should be undertaken to
demonstrate that sufficient shade is provided
between 9am and 4pm. Shadow diagrams are to
be studied for shadow cast on 21 Jun: at 9am,
12pm and 4pm. For each shadow diagram:
o At least 50% of the total public space area
is to be shaded; and
o At least 50% of public space seating is to
be shaded.
5. Signage
• An information plaque should be installed at a
visible and fixed location near the main entrance
of the public space.
• The information plaque should include the
following information:
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o Public Open Space logo measuring at least
30 cm by 30 cm;
o “Open to public 24 hours” statement;
o Public space owner and their contact
information.
• Refer to Appendix 1-1 for the template file in PDF
(editable in Adobe Illustrator) and high resolution
logo image;
• All text on the signage should be highly
contrasting with the background colour of the sign,
at least 20mm in height, and in a highly legible
font.
• The signage must be constructed of highly durable
material such as metal or stone that is fully
opaque and non-reflective.
• The signage should be integrated with other
signage in the same vicinity (if any), to reduce
visual clutter.
2 Operational • The public space:

Guidelines o Must be open to the public at all times;
o Cannot be enclosed and cannot be
converted to any other permanent uses in
the future; and
o Must remain as common property, in the
event of strata subdivision.
3 Eligibility for GFA To be eligible for GFA exemption, the first-storey

Exemption for covered public space should be within a development
First-Storey that is frequented by the general public and situated
Covered Public along popular pedestrian routes. These are typically:
Space • Commercial developments / developments with
significant commercial component (e.g. offices,
business parks, shopping centres, hotels) or Civic
& Community institutions and Educational
institutions; and
• Located in Central Area, a Regional / Sub-
Regional / Fringe Centre, a Growth Area (e.g.
Tampines, Jurong East, Paya Lebar, Woodlands
etc.) or a Town Centre.
Developers and property owners who are seeking GFA exemption for a first-storey
covered public space must formally submit the public space proposal to URA’s
Development Control Group for approval as part of the Development Application
process.
To ensure that these spaces are considered as an integral part of the design of the
development, the proposal must be submitted as part of the development plans at
the Provisional Permission (PP) Stage.
NOTE:
1
Please refer to Circular Number URA/PB/2017/01-PCUDG for further details on the POPS guidelines, list of the
submission requirements, and the required declaration form.
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7.36 Bicycle Parking Spaces and End-of-Trip Facilities
Bicycle parking spaces provided according to LTA’s new bicycle parking

provision standards 7 will be exempted from Gross Floor Area (GFA)
computation. The GFA exemption will also apply to surplus provision of
bicycle parking spaces over and above LTA’s minimum requirements if
assessed by LTA and URA to be reasonable, given the context of the
development. Bicycle parking spaces should be located at convenient
locations for cyclists, taking into consideration the alignment of adjacent
cycling paths/shared paths, public transportation nodes and amenities.
In addition, provision of the End-of-Trip facilities listed in the table below can
also qualify for GFA exemption. This is to encourage developers to provide
End-of-Trip facilities to better meet the needs of cyclists. Developers can
submit their proposals for URA’s evaluation. In general, URA will consider
whether the size of the facility is appropriate, taking reference from LTA’s
guidelines on these facilities8. The End-of-Trip facilities should also be located
near the bicycle parking spaces for the convenience of cyclists.
End-of-Trip Facilities that will be exempted from GFA computation for

various development types
Development Type GFA treatment

Residential No GFA exemption for bicycle
1. Residential developments supporting facilities as
2. Retirement housing shower/changing rooms are to
be provided for within the home,
Civic & Community Institution or as part of the clubhouse
3. Foreign workers’ dormitories9 facilities
Commercial GFA exemption for bicycle
4. Cinema, theatre and concert hall supporting facilities, subject to:
5. Shops and departmental stores • 1 shower stall per 10 bicycle
6. Offices parking spaces (about
7. Restaurants, night-clubs, coffeehouses, bars, 1.35sqm per shower stall)
cafeterias, eating-houses and canteens • Provision and size of lockers
8. Convention and exhibition halls and PMD lockers to be
subjected to evaluation
Hotel • 1 toilet per cluster of facilities
9. Hotel • Facilities should be located
10. Boarding houses and hostels10
7 Please refer to Annex A of the circular at
https://www.ura.gov.sg/Corporate/Guidelines/Circulars/dc18-03
8 Please refer to the COP on Street Work Proposals Relating to Development Works and
COP on Vehicle Parking Provision in development proposals for guidelines on the End-of-Trip
facilities.
9 The GFA treatment will also apply to Foreign Workers’ Dormitories located on industrial
sites.
10 GFA exemption for End-Of-Trip facilities will only apply to Backpackers’ Hostels; it does not
apply to student hostels which are akin to Residential use.
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Development Type GFA treatment
near the bicycle parking
Industrial spaces for the convenience of
11. Factories cyclists
12. Business park, science park, computer
software development, distribution services,
printing, publishing and allied industries and
other Business 1 developments
13. Petroleum, petrochemical, chemical and
related industries on Jurong Island
Health & Medical Care

14. Nursing homes
15. Clinic, pharmacies, hospitals and other
healthcare institutions,
Civic & Community Institution

16. Community centres, community clubs, welfare
houses and other cultural and social welfare
institutions
Place of Worship
17. Churches, mosques, temples, any place of
worship and other religious and related
institutions
Sports & Recreation No GFA exemption for bicycle

18. Sports complex, tennis, squash, badminton, supporting facilities as
sepak takraw courts, soccer, baseball pitches, shower/changing rooms/lockers
bowling alley, swimming pool, ice/roller should be provided as part of the
skating rink, recreational clubs, golf range and development
other sports and recreation facilities
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PART 2 SITE COVERAGE & COMMUNAL OPEN SPACE (COS)
8.00 Objective of Site Coverage and Communal Open Space (COS)

8.01 What is site coverage?
8.02 Site coverage control for residential and non-residential development
8.03 Items counted as site coverage
9.00 Communal Open Space (COS)
9.01 What is communal open space (COS)

9.02 The Communal Open Space requirement
9.03 Items counted as Communal Open Space
9.04 Items not counted as Communal Open Space
Part 2 SITE COVERAGE & COMMUNAL OPEN SPACE (COS)
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8.00 Objective of Site Coverage and Communal Open Space (COS)
Site coverage and communal open space (COS) are planning parameters to
determine the extent of built-upness of the site. The primary objective of site
coverage control and COS requirement is to ensure that the development site is not
over-built and that adequate areas can be devoted to greenery and landscaping to
achieve a high environmental quality.
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8.01 What is site coverage?

Site coverage is the area of all the buildings or structures measured along the
outermost external walls where the roof projection is equal or less than 2.0m,
expressed as a percentage of the net site area. It is an indication of how much the
site has been built on. See illustrations in Figures 8-1 & 8-2.
Net Site Area means the area of the site excluding areas to be vested to the State for
public roads, public road widening reserves, and drainage reserve.
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8.02 Site coverage control for residential and non-residential development:
No. Residential development Site Coverage

40% maximum or
45% maximum
applicable only to
bungalow in 2-
Detached houses (outside Site < 800 storey mixed
i landed and 2-storey
GCBA)
semi-detached
housing areas
Site area > 800 40% maximum
ii Detached houses (GCBA) - 35% maximum
Strata-landed housing (outside
iii - 40% maximum
GCBA)
Strata-landed housing (within
iv - 35% maximum
GCBA)
v Condominium & flats - 40% maximum
No. Non-residential development Site Coverage
i Petrol Station - 50% maximum
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8.03 Items counted as site coverage

Structures which are to be included in the site coverage computations are as follows:
8.03.1 Air-conditioner ledges
Air-conditioner ledges which are projected from the external wall of the
building shall form part of the site coverage regardless of projection width.
(See Figures 8-3)
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8.03.2 Building blocks including basement raised more than 1m from
the ground level
Exception: For residential flats and condominium developments submitted
under the landscape deck scheme (Refer circular No: URA/PB/2004/09-DCD
dated 5 Apr 2004), the landscape deck complying with the landscape
guidelines need not be counted as site coverage, but the residential blocks on
top of the deck would still be computed as site coverage.
8.03.3 Balcony
All balconies which are projected from the external walls of the building are
counted in as site coverage regardless of projection width. (See Figures 8-4)
8.03.4 Bay window

Bay window which is projected outwards from the wall shall be included in site
coverage computation. (See Figures 8-5)
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8.03.5 Bin Centre / Covered bin point > 1m height
Bin centre and covered bin point exceeding 1.0m high form part of the site
coverage.
8.03.6 Car parking shed

The covering of the car park shall form part of the site coverage. The site
coverage shall be measured from the columns, while area beyond the
columns can be excluded subject to the projection does not exceed 2.0m.
(See illustration in Figures 8-6)
8.03.7 Covered link-ways

Covering of the link-way shall form part of site coverage. The site coverage
shall be measured from the columns, while area beyond the columns can be
excluded subject to the projection does not exceed 2.0m. (Same as car
parking shed) (See illustration in Figures 8-7)
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8.03.8 Covered entrance / car porch
Covered entrance / car porch exceeding 2.0m width, measured inwards from
the outer roof line will be excluded and the remaining area to be computed as
site coverage. However, if these structures are vertically supported by
columns, the area between the main walls and the columns are to be
computed as site coverage while area beyond the columns can be excluded
subject to the projection does not exceed 2.0m. (See illustration in figure 8-8)
105
8.03.9 Electrical substation
Stand-alone or independent substation building shall be counted as site
coverage except for exposed transformer equipment. (See Figure 8-2)
8.03.10 Firemen’s ledge

Firemen’s ledge is a reinforced concrete slab which is projected from the
building without any railing or parapet wall. Such structure shall form part of
the site coverage regardless of projection width. (See Figure 8-9)
8.03.11 Guard house / guard post

Guard house / guard post forms part of the site coverage. (See Figure 8-2)
8.03.12 Planter box

All cantilevered planter boxes form part of the site coverage regardless of
projection width. (See Figure 8-10)
106
8.03.13 Roof-terrace / Sky-terrace
All cantilevered portion of roof-terrace and sky-terrace form part of the site
coverage regardless of projection width. (See Figure 8-11)
107
8.03.14 Roof eaves and RC ledge (for sun-shading purpose only)
108
If the roof eaves and sun-shading device are located below the 6th storey, the
cover areas are to be included in site coverage calculation. However, the area
within 2.0m as measured from the outer edge of roof eaves and sun shading
device can be excluded from site coverage. (See illustration in figure 8-12) If
the roof eaves and sun-shading device are located at 6th storey and above,
the covered area will not be computed as site coverage, regardless of the
width. (See illustration in figure 8-13)
109
110
8.03.15
Structures that protrude more than 1.0m above the existing ground level or
approved platform level such as external perforated staircases, swimming
pool decks, water-tanks or car parks ramps etc will be computed as site
coverage. (See figure 8-14)
Back
9.00 Communal Open Space (COS)

Back
9.01 What is communal open space (COS)

Communal open space (COS) forms part of the common property area, and includes
gardens and landscaped areas for the common enjoyment of the residents of the
Strata-landed housing. It also includes other facilities like open-sided pavilions,
uncovered swimming pools, sand pits, fountains and other recreational facilities if
these structures are raised not more than 1m from the ground level. See illustrations
in Figure 9-1
111
Back
9.02 The Communal Open Space requirement is:
Residential development Communal Open Space

i Strata-landed housing 45% minimum*
* Of the 45%, 25% (minimum) must be set aside for on-ground greenery
Non-residential development Communal Open Space

i Home for the Aged 35% minimum
Back
112
9.03 Items counted as Communal Open Space.
See illustrations in figure 9-1
9.03.1 Recreational facilities if these structures are uncovered and

raised not more than 1m above ground level such as:
a) Uncovered exercise equipment and structures in the fitness
park
b) Uncovered court for games (e.g tennis court, basket-ball court,
etc.)
c) Uncovered swimming pool and wading pool
d) Uncovered sand pits at children play ground, etc
9.03.2 Structures which formed part of landscaping features such as:

a) Art sculptures
b) Fountains
Back
9.04 Items not counted as Communal Open Space.

See illustrations in figure 9-1
9.04.1 Buildings and other ancillary structures which are already

included in site coverage
9.04.2 Driveways & car parks
9.04.3 Fire-engine hard-standing ground
9.04.4 Voids at ground level overlooking basements (void space)
Back
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113
PART 3 APPORTIONMENT OF COMMON AREAS IN MIXED
DEVELOPMENTS
10.1 If the approved development comprises more than one purpose falling within
different Use Group in the Development Charge Table, the following rules shall apply
in the calculation of common areas and the development charge payable. Such a
mixed development may also arise due to the land use zone, for example the
Commercial & Residential zone.
i Attributable space: Where a common area is exclusively used for a

specific purpose, it will be apportioned to the specific use. See
example below.
ii Non-attributable space: Where the common area is used for two or

more purposes, it will be apportioned based on the weighted average,
pegged to the prescribed use quantum mix in the Master Plan zoning
of the development. See example below.
114
10.2 The prescribed use quantum mix in the Master Plan zoning is detailed below.
Apportionment of
S/No Master Plan Zoning
Non-Attributable Space
Residential with Commercial at 1st 80% for Residential
1
storey 20% for Commercial
Commercial & Residential 60% for Residential
2
40% for Commercial
Hotel 60% for Hotel
3
40% for Commercial
4 White 100% for White#
Business Park 85% for Business Park

5
15% for White#
Business Park – White (X ) (100 – X )% for Business Park
(X )% for White#
6
E.g. Business Park – White (40) 60% for Business Park
40% for White#
Business 1 – White (Z ) x 100% for Business 1
Y [B1-Z ] W Y
(Y - Z ) x 100% for White#
E.g. Business 1 – White Y
3.0[B1-2.5]W
7
83.3% for Business 1
*Similar apportionment formula 16.7% for White#
applies to Business 2 – White
developments
# Common areas in White sites with a single use will be apportioned to that
proposed use. For White sites with multiple uses, non-attributable common areas
will be apportioned based on simple average of the uses. The simple average
apportionment of common area GFA on “white use” floors will similarly apply to
115
the White components of Business Park, Business Park-White and Business-
White zones.
10.3 The new apportionment rules will be applied on a per floor basis. If a floor is occupied
by a single use (e.g. Commercial), any vertical circulation GFA areas like staircases
on that floor will be apportioned to Commercial use, though they may also be used by
other users (e.g. Residential) above for escape purposes. However, if the floor is
occupied by two or more uses11 for which the staircase GFA on that floor cannot be
exclusively attributed, they will be regarded as non-attributable space and
apportioned based on weighted average, pegged to the prescribed use quantum in
the Master Plan zoning.
10.4 Sites with specific use quantum mix stated in tender or lease conditions
10.4.1 For sites where the tender or lease conditions state that the land is to be
developed for a certain use quantum mix, non-attributable common areas will be
apportioned based on the specific use quantum mix stated in the tender or lease
conditions, rather than the Master Plan zoning. For example, if the lease conditions
for a site zoned Commercial require that the site is to be developed for a use
quantum mix of 65% Commercial and 35% Civic & Community Institution, the non-
attributable spaces will be apportioned based on 65% Commercial and 35% Civic &
Community Institution, rather than 100% Commercial.
10.4.2 For White sites where the tender or lease conditions stipulate a minimum
quantum control on a particular use (e.g. minimum 30% Service Apartment), this will
be taken into account when apportioning the non-attributable common areas with the
balance 70% distributed to the other uses in the development on a simple average
basis. For example, if the White site has a requirement of minimum 30% Service
Apartment use and the development also has Commercial and Hotel uses, the
apportionment of the non-attributable common areas will be based on 30% Service
Apartment, 35% Commercial and 35% Hotel.
10.5 The illustrations above are not exhaustive in covering all possible building or layout
designs. In evaluating the development applications, URA may, if the circumstances
of a case or the planning considerations relevant to a case so warrant, depart from
these rules. Persons intending to carry out a development are advised to take this
into consideration and check with URA through enquiries or development
applications to confirm the application of the rules on their proposals.
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11
These should comprise actual uses and not common areas. For example, on full Commercial floors
with lift lobbies that serve Hotel uses, vertical circulation areas like staircases on that floor will be
apportioned to Commercial use. However, on mixed floors with both Hotel and Shop uses, vertical
circulation areas will be apportioned based on weighted average.
116
PART 4 RE-COMPUTATION OF GFA FOR EXISTING DEVELOPMENTS
11.1 Prior to 1 Sep 1989, the intensity of residential developments was determined
using the population density (i.e. persons per hectare) method while that for
commercial developments was based on the nett floor area method (i.e. excluding
neutral areas). With effect from 1 Sep 1989, the different methods of determining
development intensity for different types of development were standardized by the
current Gross Floor Area (GFA) method. The GFA was re-defined by counting all
covered floor space within a development (unless specifically exempted) and
including open areas used for commercial purposes.
11.2 To determine the intensity of such developments approved before 1 Sep 1989,
there is a need to convert the approved GFA of the developments under the old GFA
definition to a GFA figure under the current GFA definition. For such developments,
the approved building would need to be recomputed based on the 1993 GFA
definition.
11.3 The approved floor areas previously counted as GFA (updated to 1993 GFA
definition) but are exempted following the GFA reviews since 1993 can be “credited”
to the site. These “credits” GFA can be used to off-set any additional floor space
being added to the development on the site, provided that the prevailing planning
parameters e.g. building height, building setback requirements, etc. are complied
with.
Circulars relating to calculation of GFA based on 1993 guidelines
Nos Circular Reference Description Date
1 URA/PB/1993/18-DCD Revised gross floor area 15 Jul 1993

(GFA) definition
2 URA/PB/1993/23-DCD Revised gross floor area 24 Aug 1993

(GFA) definition –
Clarification
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117
PART 5 ITEMS AT A GLANCE
Items at a glance on Gross Floor Area (GFA)
Items at a glance on GFA
Items Not Partially GFA Have to Paragraph

counted counted counted be (Refer to
as as GFA* over counted Part 1-
GFA* and as GFA item 5,6,7)
above
the
Master
Plan
Control*
Aesthetic mouldings / 7.01
AHU –suspended in voids / 7.02
Air conditioner ledges / 7.12.1
Airwell in old developments / 5.01
ATM kiosk / 5.02
Basement diaphragm walls / 7.04
Balancing tank / 7.03
Balconies / 5.03
Bicycle parks / 7.36
Bay windows / 5.04
Bin point / 7.05
Cable chambers / 7.06(i)
Car parking lots / 7.07
Car parking lots - excess lots / 5.06
Car porches & garages in / 7.07.1
landed housing
Catwalk / 5.07
Catwalk not exceeding 1m wide / 7.06(ii)
Covered walkway/footway / 7.14.1
Covered public concourse area / 6.03
Covered public spaces / 6.02
Communal landscaped area at / 6.01
1st storey
Curtain walling / 7.08
Driveways / 7.09
Drop-off point / 7.10
Entrance canopy / 7.11
Firemen's ledge / 7.12.2
Floors – perforated floors / 5.08.1
Floors – intermediate floors / 5.08.2
Floors – under a pitch roof / 5.08.3
Floors – under a raised / 5.08.4
118
above
the
Master
Plan
Control*
platform > 1.5m
Floors – voids / 5.08.5
Guardhouse / 5.09
Household shelters / 5.10
Internalised planter boxes / 5.15(ii)
Lift lobby in car park floors / 6.04
Lift shaft / 6.05
Lift motor room / 5.11
st
Linkways -1 storey / 7.14.1
Linkways - upper levels / 7.14.2
Loading & unloading bay / 7.15
Loading & unloading platform / 5.12
Main entrance / 7.11
Major public space / 6.02
M&E Floors / 7.16
Meter compartment / 7.17
Motorcycle park / 5.05
Ornamental pond / 7.19
Outdoor refreshment area - / 5.13.1
Located at the rooftop
Within Orchard Planning area
Along Singapore River
Promenade
Outdoor refreshment kiosk / 5.14
Outdoor refreshment kiosk - / 5.14.1
Within Orchard Planning area
Outdoor refreshment kiosk / 5.14.2
Along Singapore River
Promenade
Pavilions - 1st storey / 7.20.1
Pavilions - rooftop / 7.20.2
Pavilions -rooftop for / 5.13.1
commercial use
Perforated structures / 7.21
Planter boxes / 7.22
Privated enclosed space / 7.23
Racking system / 7.26
119
above
the
Master
Plan
Control*
Rainwater holding tanks / 7.25
Recessed window / 5.16
Refuse chambers / 5.17
Refuse chute / 7.27
Reflective pool / 7.19
R C ledges / 7.12.3
Roof covers to screen roof top / 7.28
services
Roof eaves / 7.29
Roof terraces / 7.30
Sentry post / 5.09
Service ducts / 6.06
Shadow areas / 7.31
Sky terraces / 6.07
Staircases - intermediate / 7.32.1
Staircases – connecting floor- / 7.32.2
to-floor height
Staircases - perforated / 7.32.3
Staircases - scissors / 5.18.1
Structural protrusion from / 7.33
building wall line
Sun shading devices / 7.29
Swimming pools (covered) / 5.19
Void deck of residential / 5.21
building
Water tank / 7.25
Underground pedestrian link / 7.14.3
Unroofed staircase to ESS / 7.34
Urban Verandahs / 5.20
Walls and columns / 5.22
Notes:
/ hyperlink to the items in the GFA handbook.
* subject to conditions. See details.
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120
Part 5 ITEMS AT A GLANCE
Items at a glance on Site Coverage & Communal Open Space

Items at a glance on Site Coverage & Communal Open Space
Site Coverage Communal Open Space

Items (COS)
Not Partiall To be Paragra Counte Not Paragra
counte y counte ph d as counte ph
d as counte d as (Refer to COS d as (Refer to
Site d as Site Part 2) COS Part 2)
covera Site covera
ge covera ge
ge
Air
conditioner / 8.03.1 / 9.04.1
ledge
Bldg or
structure > 1m
/ 8.03.2 / 9.04.1
above ground
level
Balcony / 8.03.3 / 9.04.1
Bay window / 8.03.4 / 9.04.1
Covered Bin
/ 8.03.5 / 9.041
point
Car porch in
landed / 8.03.8 / 9.04.1
housing
Covered
walkway/foot / 8.03.7 / 9.04.1
way
Carpark
/ 8.03.6 / 9.04.1
(Covered)
Carpark
/ 8.01 / 9.04.2
(Uncovered)
Canopy / 8.03.8 / 9.04.1
Driveway / 8.01 / 9.04.2
Drop-off point
/ 8.03.8 / 9.04.1
(Covered)
External
perforated / 8.03.15 / 9.04.1
floor
Firemen’s
/ 8.03.10 / 9.04.1
ledge
Fire-engine
hard-standing / 8.01 / 9.04.3
ground
Fitness park
/ 8.01 / 9.03.1
(uncovered)
Fountains
/ 8.01
(uncovered)
Guardhouse / 8.03.11 / 9.04.1
Link-ways –
/ 8.03.7 / 9.04.1
1st storey
121
Site Coverage Communal Open Space
Items (COS)
Not Partiall To be Paragra Counte Not Paragra
counte y counte ph d as counte ph
d as counte d as (Refer to COS d as (Refer to
Site d as Site Part 2) COS Part 2)
covera Site covera
ge covera ge
ge
Main entrance
/ 8.03.8 / 9.04.1
(Covered)
Pavilion
8.01
(Covered but / / 9.04.1
open sided)
Planter box / 8.03.12 / 9.04.1
Private
enclosed / 5.04 / 9.04.5
space
R C ledge
/ 8.03.14 / 9.04.1
(Sun-shading)
Roof eaves / 8.03.14 / 9.04.1
Roof terrace / 8.03.13 / 9.04.1
Sentry post
/ 8.03.11 / 9.04.1
(Covered)
Sky terraces / 8.03.13 / 9.04.1
Staircase –
/ 8.03.15 / 9.04.1
External
Staircase –
/ 8.03.15 / 9.04.1
perforated
Sun shading
/ 8.03.14 / 9.04.1
device
Swimming
pool &
/ 9.03.1
Wading
(uncovered)
Swimming
pool decks ( > / 8.03.15 / 9.04.1
1.0m height)
Void on
ground level
overlooking / 9.04.4
the
basements
Water tank
located on
/ 8.03.15 / 9.04.1
ground ( >
1.0m height)
Unroofed
staircase to
/ 8.03.15 / 9.04.1
ESS ( >1.0m
height)
Note:
122
/ hyperlink to the items in the GFA handbook
* subject to conditions. See details
Back to Main
123

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Table of Contents

Part 2 Site coverage & communal open space (COS)

Part 3 Apportionment of floor areas in mixed developments

Part 4 Re-computation of GFA for existing developments

Part 5 Items at a glance

1. Gross floor area (GFA)

URBAN REDEVELOPMENT AUTHORITY

The Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) is Singapore’s national planning

Parameters for Residential Development

Parameters for Non-Residential Development

PURPOSE OF THIS HANDBOOK

1.1 Prior to 1989, the development intensity for residential development

1.2 In 1989, following the introduction of the new development charge

3 Definition of Gross Floor Area

4 Basic information required for computing gross floor area

4.1 Site Area

4.2 Plot Ratio

5 Items counted as gross floor area

5.01 Airwells (in old developments)

5.02 ATM kiosk

5.04 Private Enclosed Space (PES)

5.05 Private Roof Terrace

5.06 Bay Windows

5.07 Motorcycle parks

5.08 Car parks

5.11 Guardhouse & sentry post

5.12 Household shelters

5.13 Lift Motor Room

5.14 Loading and unloading platforms

5.15 Outdoor refreshment areas (ORA)

5.16 Outdoor refreshment kiosk

5.17 Planter boxes located within a strata unit

5,18 Recessed windows (Reversed of bay window)

5.19 Refuse chambers

5.21 Swimming Pools

5.22 Urban Verandahs (for Orchard Planning area)

5.23 Void deck of residential buildings

5.24 Walls and columns

5.25 Indoor Recreation Spaces

5.01 Airwells (in old developments)

The additional 7% balcony GFA is applicable to:

b) residential components within mixed-use developments

The additional 10% balcony GFA is applicable to:

b) The proposed balcony screen is capable of being drawn open or

Figure 5-5 Possible Design of Balcony Screens

5.04 Private Enclosed Space (PES)

All PES in non-landed residential developments, including executive condominiums,

5.05 Private Roof Terrace

All Private Roof Terraces2 in non-landed residential developments, including

5.06 Bay Windows

5.07 Motorcycle parks

5.08 Car parks

ii. Carpark spaces should be accessed through common areas (e.g.

The additional car parks provided in excess of the government’s mandatory

(ii) any amendment and/or additions and alterations applications to the

(iv) Any subsequent amendment and additions and alterations

5.10.2 Intermediate floors

Figure 5-11 Section of a building

5.10.3 Floor under a pitch roof