Mandatory fencing of vacant land in Riyadh: Steps to obtain a permit and avoid fines
In a move aimed at enhancing compliance with municipal regulations and improving the urban landscape of the capital, the Riyadh Municipality has launched an online service for issuing permits to protect vacant land through its electronic channels. This initiative is part of the municipality's ongoing efforts to support urban sustainability goals and regulate the built environment in line with the aspirations of the Kingdom's Vision 2030.
Steps to issue a fencing permit electronically
The municipality explained that the new service enables landowners to obtain fencing permits through a simple and precise process that ensures speedy completion. The process begins with registration on the dedicated online portal, followed by accurately pinpointing the land's location using the interactive map. Next, the applicant enters the required data and uploads the necessary documents, selecting an approved fencing model that meets the municipality's technical standards. The process concludes with the issuance and printing of the permit directly through the "Rasdi" platform.
Context of the initiative and combating visual pollution
The mandatory fencing of vacant land is part of a comprehensive national campaign launched by the Ministry of Municipal and Rural Affairs and Housing to address visual pollution. Unfenced vacant land is a potential breeding ground for waste and debris, negatively impacting public health and the overall appearance of residential neighborhoods. The Kingdom has begun implementing these requirements in phases to ensure compliance by landlords, as improving the urban landscape is a key pillar of the Quality of Life Program, which aims to position Saudi cities among the best in the world to live in.
Security and environmental importance
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the decision to fence off the land carries significant security and environmental importance. Fencing prevents encroachment on private property and limits the use of these lands as dumping grounds for unidentified waste. Furthermore, standardizing the fence designs contributes to a harmonious architectural style that reflects the urban identity of Riyadh, thus enhancing the city's attractiveness for investment and tourism.
Important notices regarding fines and fees
The Riyadh Municipality emphasized that failure to fence land within the specified deadlines and without obtaining the necessary permits will subject violators to strict fines. In a related matter, the Municipality highlighted a crucial point for landowners: obtaining and completing a fencing permit does not exempt the land from the "white land fees" stipulated by applicable regulations and instructions, as each system has its own independent regulatory framework. The Municipality urged all landowners to promptly utilize the electronic service and adhere to the approved requirements to avoid penalties and contribute to the development of the capital.
