The rapid process of urbanization in Bhutan has resulted in a considerable increase in construction in the urban areas. The prevailing building rules are inadequate and a review has been long overdue. An improved regulatory framework will enable the urban managers, planners, architects, engineers and technicians to enhance their performance more efficiently and effectively. With the approval of these Bhutan Building Rules 2002 it is hoped that it will facilitate the property owners to plan and build their constructions according to the prescribed technical specifications and expedite the process of approval by the implementing authorities. The purpose of these rules is to ensure minimum quality standards of construction and promote a healthy living environment for the safety of all occupants and properties.
These rules shall come into effect from 1 December 2002. All construction permissions issued prior to this date shall be valid provided the construction commences by the end of January 2003. All revalidations and those that have not been constructed by the end of January 2003 shall be governed by the new rules. Any official issuing backdated approvals shall be liable for penalties as per the relevant clause of this rule.
I would like to acknowledge the professional input given by the technical staff and officers of School Planning and Building Cell, Department of Power/Energy, the National Technical Training Authority, the Private Sector, the Dzongkhags, the City Corporations, the Department of Urban Development and Housing and the Ministry of Communications. With the rapid change in technology and the development process these rules shall be a relevant workable document that will have to be reviewed regularly and frequently. All the implementers of these rules and the owners of property are requested to give their feedback when the next review is undertaken.

Leki Dorji
Deputy Minister.