Can You Build a House Next to a Heritage Site? What the Law Says Living near a historic monument, such as a centuries-old fort or grand palace, may seem like a dream come true, but building close to these heritage sites is subject to stringent legal restrictions.
These laws are designed to protect India's archaeological and historical treasures for future generations. The primary legislation governing construction around heritage sites is the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958.
This act sets out clear guidelines to preserve the character, safety, and integrity of protected monuments.
Prohibited Areas Under Section 20A of the act, a "prohibited area" is defined as the zone extending 100 metres in all directions from the boundary of a protected site or monument.
Construction activities are strictly forbidden in this area, except for archaeological work carried out by authorized officials.
The central government has the authority to extend the prohibited area beyond 100 metres based on recommendations from the National Monuments Authority.
However, Section 20C provides exceptions for buildings or structures that existed in the prohibited area before June 16, 1992, or were constructed with approval from the Director-General.
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