Important Notes to Include in Submission Drawings for Building Approval

Essential Notes to Include in Submission Drawings (A Complete Guide)

Our submission drawings comprise not merely plans, elevations, and sections; they must also feature clear and precise notes to facilitate easy approval from local authorities. The absence of notes—or their inaccuracy—can lead to the rejection of drawings, project delays, or legal complications.

In this guide, we will outline all the essential notes that you must include in your building submission drawings.

1. General Instructions

These general instructions provide a brief overview of the project and basic information regarding compliance.

Key points to be included:

• All dimensions are provided in millimeters (mm).
• Do not scale the drawings; adhere strictly to the written dimensions.
• Work shall be executed solely in accordance with the approved drawings.
• Any discrepancies must be reported prior to the commencement of work.
• All materials and workmanship shall conform to the relevant Standard Codes.

2. Building Details Note

This defines the type and scope of the project.

Include:

• Building Type (Residential / Commercial / Mixed-use)
• Number of Floors (e.g., G+1, G+2)
• Plot Area and Built-up Area
• Occupancy Type
• Building Usage (Private Residence, Rental, Office, etc.)

3. Notes Regarding Plot Details

This is crucial for compliance with legal and zoning regulations.

Required Details:

• Plot Number and Survey Number
• Plot Area (in square meters)
• Location and Address
• Width of the road fronting the plot
• North Direction (must be clearly marked)

4. Setback and Margin Notes

Authorities strictly check setbacks.

Include:

• Front, rear, and side setbacks
• Minimum required vs. provided setbacks
• Open space details around the building

5. FSI / FAR Calculation Note

This is one of the most critical approval parameters.

Include:

• Permissible FSI/FAR
• Consumed FSI/FAR
• Total built-up area
• Ground coverage percentage

6. Structural Notes

Ensures safety and compliance with structural standards.

Include:

• Structure designed as per relevant IS codes
• Soil bearing capacity considered
• Foundation type (isolated footing, raft, etc.)
• Structural design by licensed engineer

7. Material Specification Notes

Defines quality standards.

Include:

• Grade of concrete (e.g., M20, M25)
• Steel grade (Fe500, Fe550)
• Brick/block type
• Plaster thickness and finish

8. Level and Height Notes

Important for elevation control.

Include:

• Plinth level
• Floor-to-floor height
• Total building height
• Road level reference

9. Drainage and Sanitation Notes

Required for municipal approval.

Include:

• Proper drainage connection to sewer line
• Septic tank details (if applicable)
• Rainwater disposal system
• Wastewater management

10. Water Supply Notes

Ensures proper utility planning.

Include:

• Source of water supply (municipal/borewell)
• Overhead tank capacity
• Underground tank details

11. Electrical Notes

Basic electrical compliance.

Include:

• Electrical layout as per standards
• Earthing provision
• Meter location

12. Fire Safety Notes

Mandatory for many building types.

Include:

• Fire exit details
• Staircase width
• Fire extinguisher provision
• Compliance with fire safety norms

13. Parking Notes

Essential for urban approvals.

Include:

• Number of parking spaces
• Type (open/stilt/basement)
• Vehicle turning radius

14. Accessibility Notes

Important for inclusive design.

Include:

• Ramp slope and width
• Barrier-free access
• Lift provision (if required)

15. Environmental Notes

Increasingly important in approvals.

Include:

• Rainwater harvesting system
• Solar panel provision (if any)
• Green area percentage

16. Declaration Notes

Legal confirmation by professionals.

Include:

• Owner’s declaration
• Architect’s certification
• Structural engineer’s approval
• Compliance with local bye-laws

17. Drawing-Specific Notes

Each drawing should have specific notes:

Plan Notes:

• Room names and sizes
• Wall thickness
• Door/window sizes
• Section Notes:
• Foundation details
• Floor levels
• Structural elements
• Elevation Notes:
• External finishes
• Height markings
• Architectural features

18. Standard Compliance Notes

Mention adherence to codes.

Include:

• National Building Code (NBC)
• Local municipal bye-laws
• IS codes

19. Revision Notes

Track changes in drawings.

Include:

• Revision number
• Date of revision
• Description of changes

20. Signature and Stamp Notes

Final approval requirement.

Include:

• Architect’s signature and license number
• Engineer’s stamp
• Owner’s signature
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Missing north direction
• Incorrect setback details
• No FSI calculation
• Incomplete structural notes
• No signatures or stamps

Conclusion

Including accurate notes in submission drawings is just as crucial as the drawings themselves. These notes ensure the following:

• Expedited approval
• Compliance with legal regulations
• Clear communication on-site

A well-documented set of submission drawings demonstrates a professional approach and technical precision—qualities that are essential for every architect and civil engineer.
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