CDA Crackdown: 7-Day Notice Issued to Guest Houses in Islamabad Residential Areas

The Capital Development Authority (CDA) has intensified its enforcement drive against the commercialization of residential properties in the federal capital. In its latest move, the civic body has issued strict 7-day eviction notices to guest houses, boutique hotels, and commercial hostels operating within Islamabad’s residential sectors. This rapid regulatory push aims to completely eradicate the "non-conforming use" of residential premises. For real estate investors, property landlords, and tenants using portals like Milkiyat.com, this crackdown signals a major shift in Islamabad's property market dynamics, rental yields, and zoning compliance standards.

What is Non-Conforming Property Use in Islamabad?

Under the CDA Ordinance 1960 and the Islamabad Residential Sectors Zoning (Building Control) Regulations, properties designated for residential purposes cannot be legally utilized for commercial gains. While the hospitality industry has long utilized large residential houses in premium sectors like F-6, F-7, F-11, G-6, and G-9 as affordable "bed and breakfast" setups, the CDA has classified these operations as a direct violation of urban planning laws. The primary reasons cited by the CDA for enforcing this 7-day ultimatum include:

• Neighborhood Nuance: Increased commercial traffic and lack of security in quiet family sectors.
• Infrastructure Strain: Over-utilization of utility resources like water, gas, and electricity intended for single families.
• Parking & Traffic Congestion: Blocked streets caused by guest vehicles and delivery services.

The Financial Fallout: How It Impacts Landlords and Property Owners

For property owners listed on real estate networks like Milkiyat, commercializing a residential home has historically been highly lucrative.