Investment Strategies
Understanding Land Setbacks in Abuja: Key Measurements You Should Know, When planning any construction in Abuja, it’s crucial to understand land setbacks-specific distances you must maintain from roads, water bodies, power lines, and other infrastructure.
For instance, setbacks from major roads are typically required to maintain safe traffic flow and future road expansions, while setbacks from water bodies help prevent flooding and protect natural resources. Power lines require setbacks for safety and to avoid interference with essential utilities. Neglecting these setback requirements can lead to penalties, demolition of non-compliant structures, or delays in obtaining necessary building approvals. Familiarising yourself with the required setback distances is crucial to ensuring that your construction project aligns with Abuja’s regulatory standards and proceeds smoothly.
Here’s a quick guide for you:
For Road Setbacks:
| FEDERAL HIGH WAY | 90 metres right of way. 45 metres from the centre to the property line. |
| STATE HIGH WAY | 60 metres. 30 m from the centre to the property line. |
| LOCAL ROAD (STATE) | 24 metres, 18m, 15m, 12m (12m, 9m, 7.5m, 6m right of ways respectively from the centre to the property Iine an applicable) |
Required Setback from Different Water Bodies
| Ocean/Sea 150 metres | Lagoon 50 metres | River 15 metres |
| Seasonal 15 metres | Gorges (New & Built-up areas) 10 metres |
Required Setback from Different Power Lines
| 132KV Powerline 15 metres | 330KV Powerline 25 metres |
| 11/33KV Powerline 5.5 metres |
For Residential Building Setbacks
| Front 7.5 metres | Rear 4.5 metres |
| Side 4.5 metres |
These setbacks ensure safety, proper infrastructure placement, and zoning compliance.
Always consult the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA) and Abuja Geographic
Information Systems (AGIS) for official guidelines before starting any project! These agencies provide the specific measurements and regulations needed to ensure that your project is in full compliance with Abuja’s planning and zoning laws before you begin any construction.
