The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation has made licensing mandatory for net covered sports facilities including box cricket and pickleball.
Operators now have 30 days to obtain permits or face sealing of their premises.
Following the tragic TRP game fire in Rajkot where more than 40 people lost their lives, the AMC has published draft rules for such facilities, which have sprung up across the city.
The new regulations require temporary structures, separate entry and exit gates, and high-resolution CCTVs at all net covered sports areas. Organisers must also secure police and fire NOCs, along with a structural stability certificate from the AMC’s structural engineer.
Tech requirements specified
Net covered sports facilities can only open on roads at least 12m wide with plot areas of 500 sq.m or larger. The covered structure must reach a height of 12m or more, with vacant space surrounding it.
The AMC has banned permanent structures at these sites. Each facility must provide open parking space and implement adequate safety measures.
Plots require an NOC from the estate department or, if located on society land, an NOC from the society chairman. Where applicable, clearance from airport authorities is also mandatory.
Liability and penalties
The policy clearly states that organisers bear sole responsibility for any accidents-whether fire, rush, current or flood. AMC officials will not be held liable in such cases. The Municipal Commissioner retains authority to cancel licenses for facilities that break the rules. Violations will result in a penalty of Rs 75,000.
Fee structure announced
Licences will be valid for one year, requiring annual renewal. The AMC will increase license fees by 5% every three years.
Licence fee (for one year):
• For facilities set up without prior approval: Rs 200 per sq.m
• Facilities being used and applied for license within 30 days of publishing SOP: Rs 100 per sq.m.