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RSW No: 1

CONDOMINIUM DESIGN GUIDELINES

DECEMBER 15, 2022

PRESCILO N. PALOR IV
STUDENT

AR. KATHLEEN JERELL T. RAMOS

INSTRUCTOR
CONDOMINIUM
A condominium (also called a "condo") is a large property complex
comprised of individual units, and each unit is owned separately. Ownership usually
includes a nonexclusive interest in certain "community property" controlled by the
condominium management.
Condominium management is usually made up of a board of unit owners who
oversees the daily operation of the complex, such as lawn maintenance and snow
removal.

KEY TAKEAWAYS
 A condominium, or condo, is an individually owned unit in a complex or
building of units.
 A condo owner owns the air space inside their condo, sharing an
ownership interest in the community property, such as the floor, walls,
sidewalks, stairwells, and exterior areas. 
 A general requirement of a condo owner is monthly payments to a
condominium association that is in charge of property upkeep.
 The main difference between an apartment and a condo is ownership; an
apartment is generally rented and a condo is owned.
 If major repairs are needed, condo owners may be assessed a special fee,
in addition to their regular fees, to cover such costs.

HOW A CONDOMINIUM WORKS

Owning the air space of a unit in a multi-unit development is one
description of a condo. As this description indicates, the condo owner's title to
the property does not include the four walls that divide their unit from other
units or common areas in the property. The floor, ceiling, sidewalks, stairwells,
and exterior areas are all part of the common ownership of the condo.
One common type of condominium is a residential high-rise that
provides housing for several different families. However, the concept is not
limited to high-rise buildings, nor is the concept limited to residential
properties. Residential townhouses are sometimes developed as
condominiums, and the concept is also applied to commercial properties, such
as office condominiums.

SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS 
Condominium developers differ in the ways they provide parking
spaces and garages to unit owners. In some developments, these spaces are
reserved as limited common areas, and the condo association maintains
ownership but gives exclusive rights for the unit owner to use the space or
garage.
In other developments, the unit owner buys the garage or parking
space and has ownership. However, the covenants, conditions, and
restrictions may still limit the owner's ability to sell or rent the space
independent of the unit itself.

CONDOMINIUM VS. APARTMENT

The big difference between a condo and an apartment is that you
generally own a condo, while you rent an apartment. Apartment buildings are
usually owned by a single owner (such as a property management company)
and the buildings are used solely for rental purposes. However, condos that
are rented out to tenants are sometimes referred to as apartments.1
Thus, the only notable difference between a condominium and an
apartment is ownership. A condo is generally something you own, while an
apartment is something you rent. 

REQUIREMENTS FOR A CONDOMINIUM

The declaration of covenants, conditions, and restrictions is a legal
document that sets forth the regulations for owners of units in a condominium.
This document defines the acceptable use of the unit. It describes the owner's
use of limited common areas and general common areas. The declaration
includes rules for selecting the board for the homeowners' association—the
board that manages the development.
Unit owners also pay condominium fees to the condominium
association. These fees generally include the cost of insuring the building,
shared utilities, and a reserve of funds for future maintenance of the building.
The fees may also include the fees the association pays to a management
company for the daily operation of the development. Condo fees are subject
to increase, and if the building requires major maintenance, any costs that are
not available in the reserve funds can be billed to the unit owners.

ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF CONDOS

Purchasing a home is considered one of the biggest investments a
person will make in their lifetime. Although rewarding, it is important to
understand the implications of purchasing real estate, especially a condo.
Condo living affords its owners several benefits, such as access to
amenities that are ordinarily only accessible at a cost. Owners can enjoy the
exclusive use of swimming pools, tennis courts, and fitness facilities at no
 extra cost. Some high-end condos even provide access to spas, rooftop
entertainment spaces, and gardens.
Many condo associations employ security services to safeguard their
community and protect their residents. Whether enclosed within gates,
surveilled with cameras, or patrolled by security personnel, the community
benefits from extra eyes warding off would-be intruders (and additional peace
of mind as a result).
Condo owners are required to pay condo association fees to maintain
the integrity of the community. Mostly, the condo fees provide for the
maintenance of the property, including common areas, exterior structures, and
some interior structures and appliances. Fees can vary according to what the
fees support, and some can be expensive. For major repairs, condo owners
may be assessed a special fee to cover the costs.
Much like apartments, condos often share common walls, as well as
common spaces. Living in close proximity and sharing walls and spaces limits
the amount of privacy one can enjoy. In contrast to single-family detached
houses, residents must tolerate neighborly nuisances.
In addition, condos are managed by condo associations that impose
certain rules and restrictions on owners. The condo association governs how
common spaces can be used, to what extent condo owners can make
improvements or changes to their units, and sometimes who can enjoy those
spaces with them.

PROS
 Condos are typically cheaper than other residences.
 Condos often come with shared amenities, such as security
services, maintenance, and common areas.
CONS
 Owners will have to pay additional condo fees to pay for
maintenance.
 Condo owners may have less privacy due to shared walls and
spaces.
 Condominium associations may place additional restrictions on
condo residents.

A CONDOMINIUM’S SPACE REQUIRMENTS:

 COMMERCIAL SPACES (Cafes, Laundry Shop, Convenient Store)

 ADMINISTRATIVE SPACES (Offices, Building Manager Room)
  SERVICES (Mechanical and Electrical Room, MRF)
 CONDOMINIUM UNITS

PD 957
REVISED RULES AND REGULATIONS IMPLEMENTING THE SUBDIVISION AND
CONDOMINIUM BUYER'S PROTECTIVE DECREE (PD 957) AND OTHER
RELATED LAWS
Pursuant to Article IV Section 5 c) of Executive Order No. 648 the following
rules are hereby promulgated by the Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board
(HLURB) to implement Presidential Decree Nos. 957, 1216, 1344 and other related
laws applicable to open market and medium cost subdivision and condominium
projects.

RULE I
MINIMUM DESIGN STANDARDS

Section 1. Design Standards for Subdivision

Residential subdivision projects shall conform with the following minimum design
standards, applicable local government units' (LGU) zoning ordinances as well as
pertinent provisions of the National Building Code if project is with housing
component:

A. Site Criteria
1. Location
Conformity with Zoning Ordinance/Comprehensive Land Use Plan
Subdivision projects shall be located in residential zones or other areas
appropriate for residential uses. If there is no Zoning Ordinance or approved
Comprehensive Land Use Plan, the dominant land use principle and site
suitability factors cited herein shall be used in determining suitability of a
project.
Subdivision projects supportive of other major urban activities (e.g.
housing for industrial workers) may be allowed in area zoned for the said
urban activities.

2. Physical Suitability
Subdivision projects shall be located within suitable sites for housing
and outside hazard prone areas and protection areas as provided for by
 pertinent laws. Critical areas (e.g. areas subject to flooding, landslides and
those with unstable soil) must be avoided.
The site shall be stable enough to accommodate foundation load
without excessive earthmoving, grading or cutting and filling.

3. Accessibility
The site must be served by a road that is readily accessible to public
transportation lines. Said access road shall conform with the standards set
herein to accommodate expected demand caused by the development of the
area. In no case shall a subdivision project be approved without the necessary
access road/right-of-way. Said access road right-of-way may be constructed
either by the developer or the local government unit.

B. Planning Considerations
1. Area Planning
Planning and designing of subdivision projects shall take into account the
following:
a. safety and general welfare of the future occupants:
b. adequate, safe, efficient and integrative road circulation system
servicing every lot therein;
c. judicious allocation of land uses for diversity and amenity;
d. preservation of site
e. proper siting or orientation of lots;
f. harmony with existing and proposed development in the vicinity;
g. Application of workable design principles or parameters for a well
planned and self-sustaining environment.
When a developer or planner submits a Planned Unit Development
(PUD) type of project, the layout shall likewise conform to the standards for
residential/condominium projects.

A. Open spaces
Open spaces shall conform to the provisions of P.D. 1216 and its
implementing rules and shall include the following:
a. 1 Streets - adequate and safe means of vehicular and pedestrian circulation
and easements for utilities and planting strips, shall be provided.
a. 2 Walks - paved walks shall be provided to the living units from streets,
parking spaces and from living units to play areas
 a. 3 Parks and playground - suitable recreational area(s) shall be allocated
within the subdivision. Where applicable, a hierarchy of such recreational
areas may be provided for, such that, a strategically located main park area is
supplemented or complemented by one or more smaller pocket(s) or areas for
recreational use. These areas must be accessible to living units and free from
any form of hazard or risk_ Said parks and playgrounds shall be cleared and
free from any debris. Parks and playgrounds as much as possible shall be at
street level.

B. Facilities and Amenities

Areas required for subdivision facilities and amenities shall be judiciously
allocated in accordance with the provisions herein specified.

C. Density
Density of subdivision projects shall conform with the residential densities set
forth in the zoning ordinance of the city/municipality where project is located.
Where there is a mixture of housing types within the subdivision (such as
single-detached, row house, town houses, etc.), density shall include the total
number of dwelling units in multi-storey structure plus the total number of lots
intended for single and semi-detached houses.

2. Site Preservation
A. Slope
The finished grade shall have a desired slope to allow rain water to be
channeled into street drains. Where cut and fill is necessary, an appropriate
grade shall be attained to prevent any depression in the area.
Grading and ditching shall be executed in a manner that will prevent erosion
or flooding of adjoining properties.

B. Preservation of Site Assets

Suitable trees with a caliper diameter of 200 millimetres or more, shrubs and
desirable ground cover per Department of Environment and Natural
Resources (DENR) rules shall be preserved. Where a good quality top soil
exists in the site, it shall be banked and shall be preserved for finishing grades
of yards, playgrounds, parks and garden area.

C. Ground Cover
 Grass, shrubs, plants and other landscaping materials used for ground cover
shall be of a variety appropriate for its intended use and location. They shall
be planted so as to allow well-tended cover of the area.

3. Easements
Subdivision projects shall observe and conform to the following provisions on
easements as may be required by:
a) Chapter IV, Section 51 of The Water Code, on water bodies;
b) National Power Corporation (NPC), on transmission lines;
c) PHIVOLCS per Resolution No. 515, Series of 1992, on identified fault
traces;
d) Other public utility companies and other entities' right-of-way;
e) National/local government units for projects abutting national roads
(primary roads) where adequate easement shall be provided for, including
loading and unloading areas;
f) Other related laws.

4. Circulation
Depending on the classification of roads adjacent to the subdivision and the
size of the project site, road network should result into a hierarchy of functions
and should define and serve the subdivision as one integrated unit.
a. Roads complemented with pathwalks within the subdivision must be so
aligned to facilitate movement and to link the subdivision to the nearest
major transportation route and/or adjacent property.
b. Whenever there are existing roads within the project site which shall be
made part of the subdivision plan, these shall be improved in accordance
with the standards set forth herein.
c. Streets should conform to the contours of the land as far as practicable
d. Where a proposed project adjoins a developed property, roads within the
said project shall be connected/integrated/aligned with existing ones.
e. Where a proposed project adjoins undeveloped property, a provision for
future connection shall be mandatory.
f. As far as practicable, streets shall be laid out at right angles to minimize
critical intersections such as blind corners, skew junction, etc.
g. Roads shall conform to sound engineering practices.

h. Subdivision projects shall comply to the pertinent requirements of Batas

Pambansa No. 344, otherwise known as the Accessibility Law.
5. Installation of Street Names/Signs:
The developer shall bear the cost of installation of street names/signs
coincident with the construction of streets.

C. Design Parameters
1. Land Allocation
For open market and medium cost subdivision projects with an area of one (1)
hectare or more, the percentage (%) allocation of land shall be as follows:
a. saleable area — maximum of 70% of the gross area
b. non-saleable area — minimum of 30% of the gross area

The following non-saleable area shall be observed consistent with PD No.

1216:
b.1. Parks/Playgrounds
Allocation of area for parks and playgrounds shall be mandatory for
projects one (1) hectare or more and shall be deemed nonbuildable
area. The same shall be strategically located within the subdivision
project. Area allocated for parks and playgrounds shall in no case be
less than 100 square meters.
The percentage requirement for parks/playgrounds shall be as follows:

Table 1. Parks and Playgrounds Allocation

DENSITY PARKS/PLAYGROUNDS
(No. of Lots/Dwelling Unit Per Hectare) Allocation in Percent of Gross
Area

20 and below 3.5

21 — 25 4.0
26 — 35 5.0
36 — 6.0
51 — 65 7.0
Above 65 9.0

b.2 Community Facilities

Mandatory provision of areas for community facilities, such as
neighborhood multi-purpose center both for open market and medium
cost housing projects with area one (1) hectare and above. These
areas are non-saleable. However, the developer may provide additional
 areas for community facilities such as schools and commercial/retail
centers in excess of the mandatory requirement set forth in this rule
which shall be deemed saleable. The use of the said area shall be
indicated in the plan and shall be annotated in the title thereto. (Refer
to Table 2)

Table 2. Facilities According to the Number of Saleable Lots/ Dwelling Units for
Subdivision Projects I hectare and Above

No. of Neighbor- Convenience

Saleable hood Stores & Element- High Tricycle
Lots and/or Multi- Other ary School** Terminals**
Dwelling Unit Purpose Commercial School**
Center* Centers**
10 & below - - - - -
11 — 99 - - - - -
100 — 499 x Center - -
s ** -
500 - 999 x - - - -
1000 - 1499 x - - - -
1500 - 1999 x x x - x
2000 — x x x x x
2499
2500 & x x x x x
Over

* Mandatory non-saleable
** Optional saleable but when provided in the plan the same shall be annotated in
the title

b.3 Circulation System

b.3.1 Hierarchy of Roads
The circulation system for open market and medium cost
housing projects shall have the following hierarchy of roads:
Table 3. Hierarchy of Roads
Project Size Open Market Medium Cost
Range
(Has.)
2.5 & below major, minor, motor major, minor, motor
court,alley court, alley
Above 2.5 — 5 major, collector, -do-
Above 5 —10 minor, motor major, collector, minor, motor
court, alley-do -
Above 10 — 15 -do- court, alley-do-
Above 15 — 30 -do- -do-
Above 30 -do- -do-

Minimum road right-of-way shall be in accordance with b.3.2 of this section.

In no case shall a major road be less than 10 meters when used as main
access road and/or as future connection.
a) Major Road - a street or road linking the site and serves as the main traffic
artery within the project site and shall traverse the longer axis of the
property.
b) Collector Road - a street or a road that services pedestrian/vehicular
traffic from minor roads leading to major roads.
c) Minor Road - a road which main function is to provide direct access to lots
and other activity centers.
d) Motor Courts - shall have a right-of-way of not less than 6 meters in width
with provision for sufficient space for vehicular turn around in the form of a
cul-de-sac, loop, branch or "T", with a maximum length of 60 meters
inclusive of terminal.
e) Service Roads - roads which provide for the distribution of traffic among
individual lots and activity centers.
f) Alley - a 2-meter wide walkway which shall be used to break a block and to
serve pedestrians and for emergency purposes. It shall not be used as
access to property.

b.3.2 Road Right-of-Way (ROW)

The corresponding right-of-way for hierarchy of roads shall be as
follows:

Table 4. Road Right-of-Way

Right - Of- Way (Row)
Project Size
(Meters)
(Hectares)
Open Market Medium Cost
Major Collector Minor Major Collector Minor
2.5 & below 10 8 8 10 - 8
10 8 8
 Above 2.5 - 5 12 10 10 10 8
10 10 8
Above5- 10 12 12 12 10 8
12 12 10
Above10-15 12 12

Above 15- 30 15 8 12
10
Above 30 15 10 15
ROW Carriageway ROWCarriageway
Motor Court
Alley 6 5 6 5
2 2 2 2

Note: a 6-m service road, both

ends connecting to a minor
road,shall be allowed for blocks
not exceeding 60 meters.

a) Major roads shall maintain a uniform width of road right-of-way. Tapering of

road width shall not be allowed where the road right-of-way is wider than the
prescribed standard for the interconnecting road 2.5the proposed su2.5vision.

b) Interior Subdivision project must secure right-of-way to the nearest public road
and the right-of-way shall be designated as interconnecting road with a
minimum width of 10 meters. This fact shall be annotated on the title of said
road lot and must be donated and deemed turned over to the LGU upon
completion of the said interconnecting road. (See Figure 1)
Figure 1. Interconnecting Road

c) Subdivision projects abutting main public road must provide a setback of 3-

meter deep by 5-meter in length at both sides of the subdivision entrance to
accommodate loading and unloading of passengers (see Figure 2).
Figure 2. Setback Requirement along Main Public Road

d) Subdivision projects shall have provision for future expansion where applicable, by
designating the major roads, as prescribed in Sec. 1.C.b.3.2 as the interconnecting
road right-of-way for both open market and medium cost housing projects.

b.3.3 Planting Strips

Planting strips shall be observed with the following road

specifications:
 Table 5. Width of Planting Strips and Sidewalks
ROAD WIDTH OPEN MARKET MEDIUM COST
(m) Planting Sidewalk (m) Planting Sidewalk (m)
Strip Strip
(m.) (m)
1.30 0.80 1.20 1.30 1.20
15.00 0.80 1.20 0.80 1.20
12.00 0.40 1.20 0.80 0.40 1.20 0.60
10.00 0.60 optional
8.00
6.00 (Service Road)
Optional

b.3.4 Road Pavement

All roads for both open market and medium cost housing
projects shall be paved with either concrete or asphalt. Concrete
pavement shall have a minimum thickness of 150 millimeters
and a minimum compressive strength of 20.7 Mega Pascal
(Mpa) while asphalt shall have a minimum thickness of 50
millimeters.
Sidewalk pavement shall have a minimum compressive strength
of 17.2 Mega Pascal.

b.3.5 Road Intersection

Roads should intersect at right angles as much as practicable.
Multiple intersections along major roads shall be minimized.
Distance between offset intersections should not be less than 20
meters from corner to corner. Intersections should occur on
straight sections instead of on curved sections of road and on
gentle grades with clear sight distance.
Road intersections shall be provided with adequate curb radii
consistent with sound engineering principles. (see Figure 3)
Figure 3 : Curb Radii Dimension

b.3.6 Road Grade/Slope

Crown of the roads shall have a slope of not less than 1.5
percent, while curbs and gutters shall not be less than 7 percent
to 9 percent (see Figure 4).
 Grades and vertical curbs shall conform to the design
requirements of the Department of Public Works and Highways
(DPWH).
Figure 4. Road grade/slope

2. Lot requirements
a. Lot Layout:
The following shall be considered when plotting the subdivision project:
A.1 Preservation of site assets and proper siting orientation of lots;
blending with existing and proposed development in the vicinity; and
A.2 Application of workable design principles/parameters for a well
planned environment.
To accommodate a wider range of clientele (in terms of income level and
lifestyle), and to provide diversity in housing design in a subdivision project,
the owner/developer is encouraged to allocate areas for various housing types
such as single-detached, duplex/single attached and row houses.

b. Minimum Lot Area

The minimum lot area for various types of housing under open market and
medium cost housing project shall be as follows:
Table 6. Minimum Lot Area

TYPES OF HOUSING OPEN MARKET MEDIUM COST (Sqm.)

(Sqm•)
100
Single 120
Detached
96 80
Duplex/Single Attached
. Rowhouse 60 50

Saleable lots designated as duplex/single attached and/or rowhouse lots shall

be provided with housing units.
Price of saleable lots intended for single-detached units shall not exceed 40
percent of the maximum selling price of house and lot packages.

c. Lot Design
 C.1 Saleable lots shall be designed such that they are not bisected
by political boundaries, water courses, drainage ways and utility lines.
C.2 A lot shall be served by an independent access road.
C.2 Whenever possible, lot frontage elevation shall be at street level.
C.3 Lot lines shall preferably be made perpendicular to street lines.
C.4 Deep lots and irregularly shaped lots shall be avoided.
C.5 Lots shall be planned with adequate width for side yards.
C.6 Lots shall be protected against risks.
C.7 Lots shall not be laid out if potential risks exist e.g. erosion,
slides, flooding, fault lines, etc.

d. Lot Frontage
The minimum lot frontages for various types of housing under open market
and medium cost housing projects shall be as follows:
Table 7. Minimum Lot Frontage
TYPES OF HOUSING/LOT FRONTAGE (m.)
1. Single Detached
a. Corner Lot 12
b. Regular Lot 10
c. Irregular Lot 6
d. Interior Lot 3
2. Duplex/Single Attached 8
3. Rowhouse 4

The number of rowhouses shall not exceed 20 units per block/cluster but in no
case shall this be beyond 100 meters in length.

3. Length of Block
Maximum length of block shall be 400 meters, however, blocks exceeding 250
meters shall be provided with an alley approximately at mid-length.

4. Shelter Component
a) a Minimum floor area for open market housing shall be 42 square meters and
30 square meters for medium cost housing.
b) Minimum level of completion - complete house for all types of dwelling units
based on the submitted specifications.
 Provision of firewall shall be in conformity with the Fire Code of the Philippines
and mandatory for duplexes/single attached units and every unit for
rowhouses (refer to Fig. 5).
Figure 5. Firewall Requirement for Rowhouse

5. Yard/Setback
The minimum setback of dwelling units both for open market and medium cost
housing projects shall conform to the National Building Code of the
Philippines.
6. Water Supply System
a) Specific Rules:
The subdivision water supply shall be mandatory or obligatorily
connected to an appropriate public water system or community system
provided that the water supply is enough to meet the total daily
requirements of the anticipated population.
When neither a public water system, nor an acceptable community
system is available, a centralized water supply system shall be
accepted, provided that:
a.1 The technical consultant of the developer shall determine the
location and discharge capacity of the water source(s) within the
subdivision;
a.2 The permit to drill well(s) or tap water lines from the appropriate
government agencies shall be obtained;
a.3 The water source shall be sufficient to meet the daily water
requirements of every household in the subdivision;
a.4 No hazards shall exist in the immediate vicinity of the water source
that might reduce or pollute the supply;
a.5 Water distribution shall be assured.
Accordingly, every water service entrance or connection shall be
provided with a pressure-compensating, self-regulating, constant
flow valve or fitting to ensure equitable distribution of water, water
and power conservation, and longterm savings on operational costs
of the water system.
a.6 Each subdivision shall have at least an operational deep well and
pump sets with sufficient capacity to provide Average Daily Demand
(ADD) to all homeowners.
 b) Water Requirement - Every dwelling unit shall be served by an individual
supply of water sufficient to meet the total hourly domestic needs of every
household for any 8 hour period.
c) The Average Daily Demand (ADD) for both open market and medium cost
housing projects is 150 liters per capita per day (LCPD) household
connection. (Per Board Resolution No. 506, series of 1992)
d) Fire Protection Demand - Provision for fire protection shall comply with the
requirements of the National Fire Protection Code.
e) Water Tank Capacity - 20% ADD plus fire reserve.
f) Pipes - Pipes shall conform to the standards required by Metropolitan
Waterworks and Sewerage System (MWSS) and/or Local Water Utilities
Administration (LWUA).
7. Electrical power supply
Mandatory individual household connection to primary and/or alternate
sources of power.
Installation practices, materials and fixtures used shall be in accordance with
the provisions of the Philippine Electrical Code and/or local utility company.
Provision of street lighting per pole is mandatory at 50-meter distance and
every other pole if distance is less than 50 meters.
Electrical bills for streetlights shall be proportionately shouldered by the users
thereof prior to issuance of Certificate of Completion (COG) and turn-over of
open space to LGU.

8. Sewage Disposal System

The sewage disposal system for open market and medium cost subdivision
projects shall either be any of the following:
a. Connection to Community Sewer System
Connections shall be made to an approved public or community
sewer system, subject to the requirements and provisions of the
Sanitation Code of the Philippines and other applicable rules and
regulations.
b. Septic Tanks
Where community sewer system is not available, sewage shall
be disposed of and treated in individual septic tanks.
Construction of individual septic tanks shall conform to the
design standards of Sanitation Code of the Philippines (PD 856) and
National Plumbing Code of the Philippines (RA 1378).
9. Drainage System
The drainage system of the subdivision shall conform to the natural drainage
pattern of the subdivision site, and shall drain into appropriate water bodies or
public drainage system. In no case shall drainage outfalls drain into a private
lot. Its layout shall conform to sound engineering design/ principles certified by
a duly licensed civil/sanitary engineer. Drain lines shall be of durable materials
and approved installation practices.
For both open market and medium cost subdivision projects, underground
drainage system shall be properly engineered and environmentally sound and
shall be provided with adequate Reinforced Concrete Pipes (RCP), catch
basins manholes, inlets and cross drain for efficient maintenance. Minimum
drainage pipes diameter shall be 30 centimeters.
10. Garbage Disposal System
The subdivision shall have a sanitary and efficient refuse collection and
disposal system, whether independently or in conjunction with the
municipal/city garbage collection and disposal services.
The Summarized Planning and Design Standards for Open Market and A Medium
Cost Subdivision Projects is presented in Table 8.

TABLE 8. Planning and Design Standards for a Residential Subdivision Project

Under PD 957

PARAMETERS OPEN MARKET MEDUIM COST HOUSING

HOUSING
1. Project Location Within suitable sites for Within suitable sites for
housing and outside housing and outside
potential hazard prone potential hazard prone and
and protection areas. protection areas.
2. Land Allocation for
projects 1 hectare and 70% (maximum)
above. 30% (minimum)
Saleable area
Non-saleable area Mandatory allocation for parks and playgrounds per
tabulation below:
Density Percentage of Percentage
of
(No. of Lots or Dwelling Unit Gross area allocate
b.1 Area allocated for parks Gross Area Allocated for
parks and playgrounds and playground.
for projects 1 has. & Per Hectare)
above.
20 & below 3.5%
21 -25 4.0%
26 - 35 5.0%
36 - 50 6.0%
51 - 65 7.0%
 Above 65 9.0%
In no case shall an area allocated for parks and
playgrounds be less than 100 sqm and the same shall
be strategically located within the subdivision.
Mandatory provision of areas for community facilities
such as neighbourhood multi-purpose center for
housing projects with area 1 hectare and above.
b.2 Area allocated for These areas are non-saleable. However, the
community facilities developer may provide areas for community facilities
such as schools and commercial centers in excess of
the mandatory requirement set forth in this rule which
shall be deemed saleable. The use of the said area
shall be indicated in the plan and annotated in the title
there to. (Refer to Table 1)
b.3 Circulation System Observe hierarchy of roads

PARAMETERS OPEN MARKET MEDUIM COST HOUSING

HOUSING
3. Minimum Lot Areas
a) Single Detached 120 sqm 100 sqm
b) Duplex/Single 96 sqm 80 sqm
Attached
c) Rowhouses 60 sqm 50 sqm
Saleable lots designated as duplex and/or rowhouse
lots shall be provided with housing components.
Price of saleable lots intended for single-detached
units shall not exceed 40% of the maximum selling
price of house and lot packages.
4. Minimum Lot
Frontage

4.1 Single Detached

a. corner lot 12m
b. regular lot 10m
c. irregular lot 6m
d. interior lot
3m
4.2 Single Attached/ 8m
Duplex
4m
4.3 Rowhouses
Maximum length of block is 400 meters, however,
5. Length of Block blocks exceeding 250 meters shall be provided with
an alley approximately at mid-length.
6. Roads Right of Way
Project size range Major road Collector Major road Collector
Minor Road Minor Road
2.5 has, & below 10 m - 8m 10 m - 8m
Above 2.5 - 5 has. 12m 10m 8m 10 m - 8m
Above 5 - 10 has. 12 m 10m 8m 12m 10m 8m
Above 10 - 15 has. 12 m 10m 8m 12m 10m 8m
Above 15 - 30 has. 15m 12m 10m 12m 10m 8m
Above 30 has. 15m 12m 10m 15m 12m 10m
A 6.0 meter service road,
both ends connecting to a
minor road, shall be
allowed for blocks not
exceeding 60 meters.
 PARAMETERS OPEN MARKET HOUSING MEDIUM COST HOUSING

ROW CARRIAGEWAY ROW CARRIAGEWAY

6 5
2 2 6 5
2 2
Alley is a 2-meter wide walkway which shall be used to
7. Motor Court Alley break a block and to serve both pedestrians and for
emergency purposes. It shall not be used as access to
property.
Right-of-Way (ROW) of major roads shall be increased as
project size increases.
Major roads shall maintain a uniform width of road right-
ofway. Tapering of road width shall not be allowed, where
the road right-of-way is wider than the prescribed standard
for the interconnecting road of the proposed subdivision.
NOTE:
Interior subdivision project must secure right-of-way to the
nearest public road and the right-of-way shall be designated
as interconnecting road with a minimum width of 10 meters.
This fact shall be annotated on the title of said road lot and
must be donated and deemed turned ove to the LGU upon
completion of the said interconnecting road. (See Figure 1).
Subdivision projects abutting main public road must provide
a setback of 3-Meter deep by 5-meter in length at both sides
of the subdivision entrance to accommodate loading and
unloading of passengers. (See Figure 2)
Subdivision projects shall have provision for future
expansion where applicable, by designating a minimum
interconnecting road right-ofway of 10 meters.
8. Hierarchy of Roads per
Project Size Range
2.5 has. & below
Above 2.5 - 5 has. major, minor, motor court, major, minor, motor court,
Above 5 —10 alley alley
Above 10 — 15 has. Above
15 - 30 has. major, collector, minor, motor do –
Above 30 has. court, alley
major, collector, service road,
do – minor, motor court, alley

do - do -
do – do –

do – do –

PARAMETERS OPEN MARKET MEDIUM COST HOUSING

HOUSING
9. Roads Specification PS SW
a. Planting Strip (PS)** 1.3 1.2
Sidewalk(SW) 0.8 1.2
0.8 1.2
ROW
 15m
12m
10m
8m 0.4 0.6
6m (Service Road) Optional Optional

b.Road Pavement Concrete/Asphalt Concrete/Asphalt

Major Concrete/Asphalt Concrete/Asphalt
Minor Concrete/Asphalt Concrete/Asphalt
Motor Court Concrete/Asphalt Concrete/Asphalt
Sidewalk Concrete/Asphalt Concrete/Asphalt
Alley
Concrete road pavement shall have a minimum
thickness of 150 millimeters and a minimum
compressive strength of 20.7 MPa while roads may
either be concrete of same thickness and compressive
strength or asphalt with minimum thickness of 50
millimeters.

Sidewalk pavement shall have a minimum

compressive strength of 172 MPa .
Mandatory connection to appropriate public water
10. Water Supply system, centralized water supply system.
Each subdivision shall have at least an operational
deepwell and pump sets with sufficient capacity to
provide Average Daily Demand (ADD) to all
homeowners.

a. Minimum Water 150 liters per capita per day for household connection
Supply Requirement

b. Fire Protection Provision for fire protection shall comply with the
Demand requirements of the Fire Code of the Philippines.

PARAMETERS OPEN MARKET MEDIUM COST HOUSING

HOUSING
 Mandatory individual household connection to
11. Electrical Power primary and alternate sources of power if
Supply services are available in the locality.

 Mandatory provision of street lighting per pole if

50-meter in distance; at every other pole, if less
 than 50- meter in distance.
 Electric bills shall be proportionately shouldered
by the users thereof, prior to issuance of COC
and turnover of open space to LGU.

 Installation practices, materials and fixtures

used shall be in accordance with the provision
of the Philippine Electrical Code and local utility
company.

12. Drainage System Underground

The drainage system must conform to the natural

drainage pattern of the subdivision site, and shall drain
into appropriate water bodies, public drainage system
or natural outfalls.
For both open market and medium cost subdivision
projects, underground drainage system shall be
properly engineered and environmentally sound, and
shall be provided with adequate Reinforced Concrete
Pipes (RCP), catch-basins, manholes/inlets and cross
drain for efficient maintenance. Minimum drainage
pipe diameter shall be 30 centimeters.

13. Sewage Disposal

System

a. Septic Tank Individual septic tank shall conform to the standards

and design of the Sanitation Code of the Philippines
(PD 856) and its Implementing Rules and Regulations.

Whenever applicable, connection shall be made to an

b. Connection approved public or community sewer system subject
Community Sewer to the requirements and provisions of the Sanitation
system code of the Philippines and other applicable rules and
regulations.
14. Garbage Disposal
System Provide sanitary and efficient refuse collection and
disposal system whether independently or in
conjunction with the local government garbage
collection and disposal services.

PARAMETERS OPEN MARKET HOUSING MEDIUM COST HOUSING

15. Shelter Component

a. Minimum Floor
Area
42 sqm 30 sqm
a.1 Single Detached
42 sqm 30 sqm
a.2 Duplex
42 sqm 30 sqm
a.3 Row house

In no case shall the number of row houses exceed 20

units per block/cluster and/or be beyond 100 meters in
length.
Minimum Level of
complete house (Based on the submitted specifications)
Completion
same same
Single Detached
Duplex/Semi-
Attached Mandatory provision of firewall for duplexes/semi-
Row house attached units and for every unit of row houses (See
Figure 5)

16. Setbacks/Easements Shall conform to the provisions of the National Building

Front Code of the Philippines
Side
Rear
Abutments
Section 2. Design Standards and Guidelines for Residential Condominium
Projects

A. Site Criteria
Conformity to Comprehensive Land Use Plan/Zoning Ordinance/National
Building Code
1. Residential condominium projects shall preferably be located in areas zoned as
or appropriate for residential uses.

2. Condominium projects shall likewise conform to the minimum building

requirements, lot occupancy, open spaces, parking and other requirements of the
National Building Code of the Philippines and its Implementing Rules and
Regulations.

B. Planning Consideration

1. Area Planning
a. Supplementary and supportive activities to residential use shall be allowed
provided that the privacy, order, health and safety of the residents are not
jeopardized nor threatened and that the land use plan and/or zoning
ordinance of the locality can accommodate such mixture of land uses.
b. Open spaces shall be provided within the project site pursuant to the
National Building Code of the Philippines and its Implementing Rules and
Regulations. These shall include courts, yards, setbacks, light wells,
uncovered driveways, access roads, parking spaces, buffer strips, parks
and playgrounds. Except as may hereafter be otherwise provided these
spaces shall be open from the ground to the sky. The open space shall
also be allocated for basic utilities and community facilities or common
areas.
c. Easements for utilities, such as drainage system, water supply, power
lines and communication lines, shall be integrated with land circulation
system.
d. Building orientation on lot shall take into account proper ventilation,
sunlight and land characteristics.
e. No development shall be allowed within the 5-meter mandatory easement
on both sides of the Marikina Valley Fault Trace and such other fault
 traces as may be identified by PHIVOLCS. (Approved per Board Res. No.
515, Series of 1992)

2. Site Preservation/Alteration

a. Slope
The finished grade shall have a desired slope to allow rainwater to be
channeled into street drains. Where cut and fill is necessary an
appropriate grade shall be attained to prevent any depression in the area.
Grading and ditching shall be executed in a manner that will prevent
erosion or flooding of adjoining properties.
b. Preservation of Site Assets
Suitable trees with a caliper diameter of 200 millimeters or more, as well
as shrubs and desirable ground cover shall be preserved in accordance
with the implementing rules and regulations of DENR. Where good quality
top soil exists in the site, it shall be banked and shall be preserved for
finishing grades of yards, playgrounds, parks and garden area.
c. Ground Cover
Grass, shrubs, plants and other landscaping materials used for ground
cover shall be of variety appropriate for its intended use and location.
They shall be so planted as to allow complete and permanent cover of the
area.

C. Design parameters
1. Space location
Space allocations shall provide areas for living, dining, kitchen, sleeping, toilet
and bath, laundry/ drying area and storage - the minimum sizes of which shall be
in accordance with the requirements of the National Building Code of the
Philippines and its Implementing Rules and Regulations/referral codes.
a. Parks/Playground and/or Other Recreational Areas

a.1 Parks/Playground (exclusive of easements, access roads, driveways,

parking space) shall be required for:

a.1.1 Projects with a gross saleable area of 1.000 square meters: Or

 a.1.2 Projects with ten (10) or more condominium units. Except when the
condominium is part of a subdivision project or a park/playground not
more than or 800 meters away and in reaching it, the pedestrian will
not be unduly exposed to hazard.

a.2 The minimum area for a single park/playground shall be 50 square

meters. Increments of 3.00 square meters for every additional family
dwelling type in excess of 10 units shall be added.

a.3 Parks/playground or other recreational facilities may not be required if the

condominium is located not more than or 800 meters from a publicly
accessible park/playground/or other recreational facilities.

a.4 Parks/playground shall be properly landscaped to accommodate both

active and passive activities.

a.5 Parks/playground may be accommodated in the yard/s provided such

yards are adequate and usable as park.

a.6 Other facilities (optional) such as tennis courts, swimming pool, etc. may
be integrated with the park/playground.

b. Parking Space Requirement

b.1 For Residential Condominium Units

b.1.1 The parking slot requirement for residential condominium project

snail be in accordance with the provisions of the National Building
Code of the Philippines.

b.1.2 Off-site parking may be allowed in addition to the on-site parking

provided that the designated parking area is part of the project and
provided further that the required distance shall be in accordance with
the National Building Code of the Philippines
.
b.1.3 Compliance with additional parking spaces as required by local
ordinances shall be mandatory.

b.2 For Commercial Condominium Units

 b.2.1 The minimum parking slot requirement shall be in accordance with
the provisions of the National Building Code of the Philippines.

b.2.2 Off-site parking may be allowed in addition to the on-site parking

provided that the designated parking area is part of the project or the
project is within the commercial subdivision where common parking
area is part of the approved subdivision plan and provided further that
parking arrangements are explicitly indicated in the contract of sale of
property to be developed. Off-site parking shall not be located 200
meters away from condominium project.

c. Access Roads
Roads shall serve every building, parking space, park/playground and service
points (e.g. garbage collection points). Minimum roads or right-of-way shall be
8 meters, 6 meters thereof shall be the carriageway and the remaining 2
meters shall be developed as sidewalk/planting strip.
Path walks shall be provided for pedestrian circulation with a minimum width
of 1.2 meters.
Construction of roads, sidewalk and path walks, shall be in accordance with
the standards of residential subdivision. Space for turnaround at dead end
shall be provided.
Direct vehicular access to the property shall be provided by public street or
alley.
An independent means of access shall be provided to each dwelling, or group
of dwellings in a single plot. Without trespassing adjoining properties. Utilities
and service facilities- must be independent for each dwelling unit.
An independent means of access to each living unit shall be provided without
passing through any yard of a living unit or any other yard.

c.1 Hierarchy of Roads

For horizontal condominium projects, the hierarchy of roads shall
be the same as the minimum design standard requirements for
subdivision projects.
c.2 Pavement
All roads (major, minor, motor court) for both residential and
commercial condominium projects shall be paved with
concrete/asphalt.
d. Basic Facilities and Services

d.1 Service Area (Laundry/Drying Area)

Adequate laundry and drying areas shall be provided.
Where such service areas are held in common, they shall have suitable
outdoor locations, fenced or screened and kept away from living rooms,
entrance or front yards.

d.2 Water supply, power, sewerage and drainage utilities shall conform to the
requirements of a subdivision.

d.2.1 Reservoir/Water Tank

For multi-storey buildings
If the height of the building requires water pressure in excess
of that in the main water line, a water tank shall be provided.
Tank shall also be required if the peak drawn should reduce
the pressure on the highest usable floor to less than 0.06
Mpa - the minimum pressure required for satisfactory
operation of fixtures, particularly those with flush valves.
d.2.2 Capacity - 20% Average Daily Demand plus fire reserve

d.3 Mechanical Equipment and Service Areas

d.3.1 Provision of elevators shall conform to the plans and

specifications of the duly licensed architect/engineer who shall
determine the requirement for elevators including the number of
cars, capacity, safety features and standards, elevator type,
speed and location in relation to the over-all design and use of
the building; the design architect/engineer shall certify under
oath that all the components thereof are in accordance with the
National Building Code of the Philippines, the Accessibility Law
and national industry standards and other pertinent laws.

d.3.2 Compliance to the provisions of the Fire Code of the

Philippines, shall be mandatory
 d.4 Refuse Collection/Disposal
Centralized garbage depository area and efficient refuse collection and
disposal services shall be provided whether independently or in
conjunction with the city or municipality garbage collection and disposal
services. It shall conform to the provisions of the Sanitation Code of the
Philippines and its Implementing Rules and Regulations/pertinent referral
codes.

2. Floor Area Requirements

a. Single-Occupancy Unit
Single occupancy units shall have a minimum floor area of 18 square
meters, however, a net floor area of 12 square meters may be allowed
provided that:

a.1 These are intended for students/employees/workers and provided

further that the condominium project to which these will be integrated is
within highly urbanized areas.

a.2 The same shall be provided with common basic facilities such as
laundry/drying area and support amenities such as visitor's lounge and
dining area.

a.3 Said facilities/support amenities including all other measures that will
ensure compliance with the intended use of the unit shall be explicitly
indicated in the master deed/ contract to sell.

b. Family Dwelling Unit

The minimum floor area of family condominium units shall be 36 square
meters and 22 square meters for open market and medium cost
condominium project respectively.

Section 3. Conversion of Existing Structures to Condominium Projects.

Existing structures may be converted into condominium projects upon proper
application there for with the Board and compliance with the requirements of
condominium laws and these rules and standards.
Section 4. Variances
These design standards and requirements may be modified or varied by the
Board in cases of large scale government and private residential subdivision or
condominium projects, housing in areas for priority development or urban land reform
zones, resettlement or social housing projects for low income groups, or housing
projects financed by any government financing institution, or in cases where strict
observance hereof will cause extreme hardship to the subdivision or condominium
owner/developer.

1) The location is unique and different from the adjacent locality, and because of its
uniqueness, the owners cannot obtain a reasonable return on the residential
subdivision/condominium projects;

2) The hardship is not self-created;

3) The proposed variance is due to existing permanent structures (concrete/steel)

and is necessary to permit a reasonable use of the residential
subdivision/condominium;

4) The variance will not alter the essential character of the location where the
residential subdivision for which the variance is sought, is located, and will not
substantially or permanently affect the use of the other residential
subdivision/condominium in the same locality; particularly those within a 1
kilometer radius thereof;

5) The variance will not give rise to unauthorized reclassification of the approved
residential subdivision/condominium plan (i.e. whether partial or full alteration of
the plan), and will not adversely affect the public health, safety or general welfare
of the community. (Per Commission Proper Resolution No. R-53, S. 1982)
 SAMPLE OF CONDOMINIUM PRPOJECTS
VISTA BRENTHILL BAGUIO
REFERENCES:

 https://hudcc.gov.ph/sites/default/files/styles/large/public/document/IRR%20PD
%20957.pdf
 https://www.investopedia.com/terms/c/condominium.asp