Punjab Introduces New Rule for Home Construction in Housing Societies

The Punjab Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has introduced a major regulation for homeowners and builders across the province, making it compulsory to install three-chamber septic tanks in all houses within housing societies.

EPA Punjab Director General Imran Hamid Sheikh explained that contaminated water is becoming a serious public health hazard. To prevent the spread of diseases caused by wastewater, the agency has made a standardized septic tank system mandatory for both residential and commercial properties.

In addition, the EPA has directed housing societies to adopt a dual water management system and set up water treatment plants to meet environmental safety requirements.

Standardized Septic Tank Sizes:

• 5 Marla house: 6 ft × 4 ft × 4 ft
• 10 Marla house: 9 ft × 6 ft × 4 ft
• 1 Kanal house/commercial plaza: 10 ft × 6 ft × 5 ft
• 3–4 Kanal plaza: 15 ft × 6 ft × 5 ft
• Above 4 Kanal: 16 ft × 6 ft × 5 ft

The new rule has been immediately enforced as part of all environmental approvals, with the LDA, PHA, FDA, GDA, and RDA already notified. Relevant authorities have been instructed to ensure compliance during land subdivision approvals.

Field officers have also been directed to closely monitor the installation of septic tanks to reduce pollution and protect the health and well-being of residents.