Chandigarh Administration Revises Paying Guest Accommodation Rules
The Chandigarh administration has implemented significant amendments to its paying guest (PG) policy, introducing stricter regulations for registration and compliance. The revised policy, notified on Tuesday, mandates that all PG accommodations must now possess valid completion certificates to be eligible for registration, marking a departure from previous lenient provisions.
Key Changes in the Amended PG Policy
According to the amendment to Clause 5 of the PG policy, PG establishments will only be permitted in residential properties that have been sanctioned as per the building bylaws. Furthermore, these properties must not have undergone any unauthorised construction after the issuance of a completion certificate. This move aims to enhance safety standards and ensure adherence to legal norms in the city's housing sector.
Discontinuation of Conditional Registration
Previously, PG operators could obtain conditional registration even if completion or occupation certificates were pending. They were allowed a grace period of six months to submit the required documents. However, under the revised policy, such conditional approvals will no longer be granted. This change eliminates the loophole that allowed temporary operations without full compliance, thereby tightening regulatory oversight.
Introduction of Mandatory Occupation Certificates
In addition to completion certificates, the amended policy now requires occupation certificates, which were not mandatory earlier. This new requirement ensures that PG accommodations are not only structurally sound but also legally fit for occupancy, providing an extra layer of protection for residents and tenants.
Impact on the PG Sector in Chandigarh
The stricter regulations are expected to streamline the PG market in Chandigarh, promoting transparency and accountability among operators. By enforcing completion and occupation certificates, the administration aims to curb unauthorised constructions and improve the overall quality of living spaces for students, professionals, and other tenants relying on PG accommodations.
This policy shift reflects the administration's commitment to urban planning and public safety, potentially setting a precedent for other cities to follow in regulating temporary housing options.
