Paju-si Revises 'Officetel Balcony Installation Building Standards'

Ban on Installation of Extended Balconies in Existing Apartments
Strict Restrictions on Window Installation for Indoor Balcony Use

Paju City Hall exterior.

Gyeonggi Paju City has established the "Paju City Officetel Balcony Installation Standards" on September 12 to provide a safer living environment for officetel residents, following the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport's revision of the "Officetel Construction Standards."

The newly established standards primarily prohibit the installation of extended balconies typical of apartments in order to maintain the original function of balconies and include measures to efficiently utilize the living space of officetel residents.

Specifically, the installation of windows for indoor balcony use is strictly limited, the threshold height between the balcony and the living room is set to at least 20 cm, and the structure is restricted to reinforced concrete.

Additionally, the balcony installation ratio relative to the exclusive area is set at 25% or less for units 85㎡ or larger, and 30% or less for units smaller than 85㎡. The effective width of the balcony is suggested to be at least 0.8 m, considering human body dimensions and space utilization, with exceptions made for separate spaces for outdoor unit installation.

For safety, the effective height of railings is set at 1.5 m or higher, and the use of glass railings (tempered glass) is recommended to ensure a safe structure and aesthetic view. Intrusion detection devices are recommended for balconies of low-floor and top-floor units, and balconies of low-floor units should be planned to prevent intrusion by stepping on structures or natural objects.

Im Se-woong, Head of the Permit Division, stated, "We have established officetel balcony installation standards that prioritize safety while maintaining the function of balconies to provide citizens with a safer and more pleasant living environment," adding, "We will continue efforts to improve the residential environment by actively reflecting citizens' opinions."