Title
Open Space Requirements in Subdivisions
Law
Presidential Decree No. 1216
Decision Date
Oct 14, 1977
Presidential Decree No. 1216 mandates that at least 30% of the total area of residential subdivisions in the Philippines must be reserved as open spaces for public use, with the cost of development and maintenance borne by lot buyers, while allowing for a reduction in the required open space to make residential lots more affordable for low-income groups.

Law Summary

Amendment to Section 31 of Presidential Decree No. 957 on Subdivision Infrastructure

  • Subdivision developers are mandated to provide adequate roads, alleys, and sidewalks.
  • For subdivisions with an area of one hectare or more, 30% of the gross area must be reserved as open space.
  • Allocation of open space within the 30% is delineated based on housing density:
    • 9% for high-density or social housing (66 to 100 family lots per hectare).
    • 7% for medium-density or economic housing (21 to 65 family lots per hectare).
    • 3.5% for low-density or open market housing (20 family lots and below per hectare).

Characteristics and Use of Reserved Open Spaces

  • Reserved open spaces are designated exclusively for parks, playgrounds, and recreational use.
  • Such areas are non-alienable public lands and cannot be built upon.
  • Subdivision plans must include tree planting in designated areas as determined by the National Housing Authority.

Ownership and Donation of Subdivision Infrastructure

  • Upon completion certified by the Authority, roads, alleys, sidewalks, and playgrounds are to be donated by the developer to the city or municipality.
  • Local governments are required to accept these donations.
  • Parks and playgrounds may alternatively be donated to the Homeowners Association with local government consent.
  • Once donated, parks and playgrounds cannot be converted to any other use.

Repeal of Conflicting Provisions

  • Sections 2 and 5 of Presidential Decree No. 953 are repealed.
  • Any laws, decrees, executive orders, or regulations inconsistent with these provisions are amended or repealed accordingly.

Effectivity

  • The Decree takes effect immediately upon promulgation on October 14, 1977.

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