Coastal Regulation Zone (CRZ) Notifications, 2018

The CRZ Notification, 2018 was approved to enhance activities in the coastal regions thereby promoting economic growth while also respecting the conservation principles of coastal regions. It not only aims at employment generation but also towards better life, adding value to the economy of India.

Important Changes Made: Change in FSI (Floor Space Index): As per CRZ, 2011 Notification, for CRZ-II (Urban) areas, Floor Space Index (FSI) or the Floor Area Ratio (FAR) had been frozen as per 1991 Development Control Regulation (DCR) levels. In the CRZ, 2018 Notification, it has been de-frozen, allowing FSI for construction projects, as prevailing on the date of the new Notification.

• Densely Populated Rural Areas: For CRZ-III (Rural) areas, two separate categories have now been stipulated, these are-
  1. CRZ-III A – It includes densely populated rural areas with a population density of 2161 per square kilometre as per 2011 Census. Such areas shall have a No Development Zone (NDZ) of 50 meters from the High Tide Line as against 200 meters from the High Tide Line stipulated in the CRZ Notification, 2011 since such areas have similar characteristics as urban areas.
  2. CRZ-III B – Rural areas with population density of below 2161 per square kilometre as per 2011 Census. Such areas shall continue to have an NDZ of 200 meters from the HTL.