Authority warns restaurants, cafes and other commercial rooftop operations of sealing and financial penalties for failing to obtain approvals

ISLAMABAD: The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has directed rooftop restaurants, cafes and other commercial businesses across Islamabad to regularise their operations within 15 days or face enforcement action.

The CDA Building and Housing Control Wing issued the directive to owners, occupiers and managements of businesses operating from rooftops within the authority’s jurisdiction.

According to a public notice, businesses must bring their premises into compliance with the approved Rooftop Policy and obtain all necessary permissions from the competent authority.

The CDA issued the instructions in the interest of public safety and under the Islamabad Capital Territory Building Control Regulations 2020, as amended in 2023.

Directive Covers Sectors and Housing Societies

The notice applies to rooftop commercial activities operating throughout CDA-controlled Islamabad, including businesses located in sectoral areas and housing societies.

Consequently, affected establishments must complete the regularisation process within 15 days from the publication date of the notice.

The authority has advised owners and managements to review their existing approvals and ensure that their businesses comply with applicable building regulations and rooftop operating requirements.

Furthermore, the CDA has asked all concerned parties to treat the directive as an urgent matter rather than waiting until the deadline approaches.

Unapproved Businesses Face Sealing and Fines

The authority warned that it would initiate enforcement measures once the 15-day compliance period expires.

Any rooftop restaurant, cafe or other commercial activity operating without required approvals or regularisation could face immediate sealing.

Additionally, the CDA may impose applicable fines and other penalties against businesses that continue operating in violation of the regulations.

The Building and Housing Control Wing has therefore urged operators to obtain the required permissions within the stipulated period to avoid disruption to their businesses.

The latest directive strengthens regulatory scrutiny of Islamabad’s growing rooftop commercial sector, with the CDA placing particular emphasis on building compliance and public safety.