Satellite imagery shows construction site fencing and the prohibition of fabric screens
In a decisive move aimed at enhancing the urban landscape and increasing compliance rates, the Ministry of Municipalities and Housing reiterated its strict warnings to project owners and contractors regarding the necessity of full adherence to regulations governing the fencing of construction sites . The Ministry announced the launch of an advanced monitoring phase utilizing satellite-based surveillance technologies, in conjunction with intensive field inspections, under the slogan "No Violation Will Be Permitted."
A qualitative leap in municipal oversight
The municipal compliance program has revealed a strategic shift in enforcement mechanisms, moving beyond human monitoring to include satellite surveillance. This technology aims to accurately detect instances of unfenced buildings under construction, thus preventing any attempts to circumvent or evade regulations and ensuring comprehensive coverage of all sites within the urban area.
Context of the initiative and its developmental dimensions
These stringent measures are part of a broader framework aligned with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030 , specifically the Quality of Life Program, which prioritizes improving the urban landscape and eliminating visual pollution. Historically, some residential areas have suffered from haphazard construction sites, where debris and equipment posed a danger to pedestrians and marred the city's appearance. Therefore, this regulation is a necessary step to elevate the Kingdom's construction sector to professional standards that meet international benchmarks.
Technical specifications: Goodbye to fabric screens
The ministry has put an end to arbitrary interpretations, as the new regulations have specified precise requirements for mandatory fencing, most notably:
- Material and color: The fence should be made of corrugated aluminum (hangar) in a uniform white color, giving a visually pleasing and organized appearance.
- Dimensions: The height of the fence must not be less than two meters to ensure complete isolation of the site.
- Prohibited: A complete ban on the use of fabric screens (burlap), concrete barriers (concrete blocks), or damaged corrugated iron, as these materials increase visual distortion and do not provide adequate protection.
Protecting infrastructure and public safety
The new regulations also addressed the protection of public property, emphasizing the proper installation of fences. The ministry mandated that contractors use aluminum bases or iron tubes secured with removable bolts, and categorically prohibited digging up sidewalks or pouring concrete on them to support posts, or using stones to fix fences, all in order to preserve the integrity of sidewalk and road infrastructure.
Transparency and environmental responsibility
To enhance transparency, the ministry mandated the placement of clear informational signs on the perimeter wall containing project details, the building permit, and the contractor's contact information and commercial registration. The requirements also included an important environmental dimension, prohibiting the cutting or removal of trees surrounding the site. Furthermore, the temporary wall was to remain in place until all work was completed and the building occupancy certificate was issued, ensuring the site was handed over clean and safe.
