Building Setback Calculator (Nepal)
Calculate the buildable footprint after applying front, side, and rear setbacks following Nepal National Building Code and KVDA bylaws. Pick your road category and see how much of your plot you can actually build on.
About these values
The defaults shown are indicative residential minimums based on the Nepal National Building Code and KVDA municipal bylaws applicable to most Kathmandu Valley wards. Setbacks vary outside the valley and for commercial or institutional plots, so always confirm with your local ward office and a licensed engineer before construction.
FAQ
What is the front setback in Nepal for an 8 metre road?
For roads between 8 and 12 metres in Kathmandu Valley, the typical front setback is 3 metres from the right of way. The exact number depends on the municipal ward's zoning, so confirm at your ward office before naksa pass.
What is right of way (ROW) in Nepal?
Right of way is the legally protected width of a road that no permanent construction can occupy. For an 8-metre wide road, the ROW is usually 8 metres total. Setbacks are measured from the edge of this ROW, not from your existing boundary wall, so confirm the official ROW first.
Are side and rear setbacks always the same?
No. Side and rear setbacks vary by ward and plot type. A common starting point is 1.5 metres on each side and 1.5 metres at the rear for residential plots, but corner plots, hilly terrain, and commercial zoning can change these numbers. Always check with your municipality before finalising drawings.
Do setbacks count toward FAR and ground coverage?
Setbacks define the buildable footprint, but FAR (Floor Area Ratio) and ground coverage are calculated against the total plot area, not the buildable footprint. So a strict setback can leave you unable to use your full FAR allowance even if you go up to the maximum allowable height.