Understanding Continuous Building Areas (CBA)

What is a Continuous Building Area?

Continuous Building Areas (CBA) are specially designated zones where relaxed building regulations apply to promote dense urban development. These areas typically feature row housing, traditional urban neighborhoods, and areas with continuous street frontages.

Key Features of CBA Zones

• Higher FSI: Maximum FSI of 2.0 allowed compared to standard zones
• Reduced Setbacks: Front setback of only 1.5m required, with nil side and rear setbacks
• Increased Height: Up to 12m (GF+2 or Stilt+3) allowed even on narrow roads
• Smaller Road Width: Development allowed on roads as narrow as 3.0m
• Mixed Use: Both residential and commercial development permitted

Building Parameters in CBA

The following parameters apply to developments in Continuous Building Areas:

Permissible Developments

In CBA zones, the following types of developments are permitted:

• Residential buildings up to 16 dwelling units
• Commercial buildings up to 300 sq.m
• Mixed-use developments combining residential and commercial
• Row housing and attached buildings
• Traditional shophouses with residences above

Special Provisions

• Internal Passage: At least 1m wide internal passage required from rear to front at ground level
• Fire Safety: Despite reduced setbacks, fire safety norms must be followed
• Parking: Parking requirements may be relaxed based on site constraints
• Heritage Areas: Additional heritage regulations may apply in historic CBAs

How to Use This Tool

Our CBA Zone Check tool helps you determine if a location falls within a designated Continuous Building Area:

1. Navigate the map to your area of interest or use the search function
2. Click on any location to check its CBA zone status
3. View detailed information about applicable building regulations
4. Use the current location button to check your present location
5. The color-coded markers indicate different zone statuses

Benefits of CBA Designation

• Higher Development Potential: Increased FSI allows more built-up area
• Reduced Land Cost: Smaller setbacks mean more usable space
• Traditional Urban Form: Maintains continuous street frontages
• Mixed-Use Development: Allows vibrant neighborhoods with shops and residences
• Affordable Housing: Higher density enables more affordable units

Important Considerations

• Always verify CBA designation with official Master Plan documents
• Heritage and conservation regulations may override CBA provisions
• Structural stability must be ensured when building with nil setbacks
• Fire safety and emergency access must be maintained
• Consult with qualified architects familiar with CBA regulations

Disclaimer

The CBA zone information provided through this tool is for reference purposes only. We recommend consulting with local planning authorities and referring to the official Master Plan and Development Control Regulations before making any development decisions. This tool should not be considered a substitute for official planning permissions or legal advice.