All about balcony rules and regulations in Abu Dhabi
The Abu Dhabi government enforces some strict rules and regulations for those residing in the emirate to ensure safety and maintain a certain aesthetic. For instance, there are certain balcony rules and regulations in Abu Dhabi that one has to follow. Read on as we discuss these rules so that you don’t face fines for misusing balconies in Abu Dhabi.
LIST OF BALCONY RULES AND REGULATIONS IN ABU DHABI
Balconies are pretty handy to spend some time under the blue skies, reading a book or just chatting away with your loved ones. However, they could be a safety hazard if you have children at home, or if misused, they could make the whole property look a bit ugly.
So, with that in consideration, there are certain balcony rules and regulations that you need to follow whether you own a property or are renting one in Abu Dhabi. Failure to adhere to these rules can lead to hefty fines. Here is what you need to know.
DRYING CLOTHES
Yes, it is prohibited to dry out your laundry in your balcony. The government has run campaigns to inform and educate citizen about this possible violation. Hanging clothes out in the balcony disrupts with the aesthetics of the city and is considered to be unhygienic. If this law is broken, after a first warning, home dwellers could face a fine of AED 1,000.
To avoid fines for misusing balconies in Abu Dhabi, you can use drying racks or electric driers.
UNATTENDED CHILDREN
The Interior Ministry of the UAE and the Abu Dhabi government have run extensive campaigns regarding this issue. One of the balcony rules and regulations in Abu Dhabi you have to follow is that you cannot leave your child unattended in the balcony. Children by nature, are curious and wish to explore, putting their own lives in danger. The guardians or parents have to ensure they don’t allow their kids access to such areas, including balconies.
USING THE BALCONY FOR STORAGE
Your balcony is not a storage to dump old furniture or other junk. While it may seem an easy way to hoard things, it is not permitted. It can be a real eyesore and also be a safety and fire hazard. If you have extra items you don’t intend to use, there is always the option of calling up Take My Junk. Alternatively, one can take up storage units if there is not enough space in the house.
INSTALLATION OF DISHES AND ANTENNAS
While installation of dishes and antennas is permitted, it can only be done by the landlord. Plus, one has to follow the safety guidelines when installing the devices. This is one of the specific balcony rules and regulations while renting in Abu Dhabi that tenants have to follow. If you wish to install a device, discuss it with your landlord before signing on the dotted line.
Illegal installation could lead to a fine of AED 2,000.
COOKING
Cooking or a good old barbecue outdoors seems like a lovely idea, but it can be done only in designated areas. Many buildings have spaces specified for cooking. Doing so in your balcony is against the balcony rules and regulations in Abu Dhabi.
FEEDING BIRDS AND ANIMAL
Feeding bird or stray animals in your balcony is also prohibited. It can create a health hazard as some animal’s waste can directly impact your and your neighbour’s health. Plus, this also causes cleanliness issues.
GENERAL CLEANLINESS
The balcony is part of your home. So, as you keep other parts of your house clean, maintaining a tidy look for your balcony is also essential. Whether it is cigarette buds or bottles you finish after sitting down to relax in the balcony, you must clean up. Similarly, water dripping or leaking can also lead to fines.
THROWING THINGS FROM THE BALCONY
Too lazy to get up and throw that soft drink can in the bin inside? Feel like chucking it from your balcony? Well, you could be fined heavily for that. Whether you throw hard objects or tissues, you can face misusing balconies fines in Abu Dhabi. It would be wise to just keep a bin outdoors and use it when needed.
FAQS ABOUT BALCONY RULES AND REGULATIONS IN ABU DHABI AND MORE
CAN I GRILL IN MY BALCONY IN ABU DHABI?
No, as discussed, grilling or cooking in the balcony is not permitted. For those living in Dubai, similar rules apply. You can read about balcony rules and regulations in Dubai to find out more.
WHICH ARE THE BEST PLACES TO LIVE FOR FAMILIES IN ABU DHABI?
Planning to move to the capital city with the family? You can check out our list of top family-friendly communities in Abu Dhabi.
So, there you have it. Follow these balcony rules and regulations in Abu Dhabi to stay on the right side of the law. It will keep and everyone around you safe. Balconies are a blessing and a source of fresh air and natural light. Be sure to use it appropriately.