Plot Coverage & Setback Calculator

Understanding Plot Coverage and Setbacks in Lahore

Every plot in Lahore has by-laws that limit how much you can build. These rules, set by DHA, LDA, Bahria Town, Park View City and other societies, control covered area percentage, front/back/side setbacks, height limits and basement allowances. Violating them risks demolition orders, denied utility connections and stalled NOC. This calculator gives indicative values based on the most common residential by-laws in 2026; always confirm with your society office before finalising drawings.

Coverage Percentage Explained

Coverage percentage is the maximum footprint of the house on the plot, typically 70% in most Lahore residential societies for plots up to 1 Kanal. For a 10 Marla plot (2,250 sq ft), this means a maximum ground floor footprint of about 1,575 sq ft, leaving 675 sq ft for setbacks, lawn, driveway and side walks. Larger plots (1 Kanal and above) sometimes allow up to 75% coverage on the ground floor with restrictions on upper floors.

Front Setback

The front setback is the distance from the front plot boundary to the front wall of the house. It exists to maintain street uniformity, provide parking and allow utility access. Typical values: 5 ft for 3 to 8 Marla, 10 ft for 10 Marla, 15–20 ft for 1 Kanal and larger. DHA Phase 5 and Phase 8 require 20 ft on Kanal plots; Bahria Town Sector C typically requires 15 ft.

Back Setback

The back setback is generally 5 ft across most Lahore societies regardless of plot size. It ensures ventilation, sewerage access from the rear lane and adequate light to neighbouring plots. Some specific blocks may require larger back setbacks on corner plots.

Side Setbacks

Side setbacks are the most variable. For 3 to 8 Marla plots, the standard practice is "continuous building", zero side setback on shared walls between adjacent plots. For 10 Marla, most societies require 3–5 ft on at least one side. For 1 Kanal and above, expect 5 ft on each side. Corner plots have additional setback requirements on the road-facing side.

Height and Basement

Most Lahore residential societies allow ground + first floor + roof access (G+1 with mumty) as standard. DHA, Bahria Town and LSC permit G+2 (triple storey) on 10 Marla and 1 Kanal plots with approval. Basement is typically permitted with conditions: maximum 50% of plot area, headroom 7 ft minimum, separate access, and ventilation requirements. Approval requires submission of basement drawings with structural details.

Where the Numbers Come From

The values used here are derived from the most common DHA Lahore, LDA, Bahria Town, Park View City and Lahore Smart City residential by-laws. Specific blocks, corner plots, commercial sub-plots and amenity-adjacent plots may have different rules. Always submit your drawings to the society building control department for approval before commencing construction.