Vietnam Clarifies Rules for 'Super-Thin Houses' After Canal Project Land Clearance

Ho Chi Minh City authorities are addressing concerns about "super-thin houses" that emerged following land clearance for the Xuyen Tam canal project. The project impacted 869 land parcels, with some residents retaining small portions of their property. The Gia Dinh Ward People's Committee clarified that while houses on plots smaller than 9 square meters cannot be rebuilt, existing structures can be repaired to ensure safety and minimal living conditions. The ward reported 214 cases with remaining areas of 9 square meters or more and 49 cases with less than 9 square meters. Among those with less than 9 square meters, 8 were vacant lots and 41 had existing structures. For the vacant lots under 9 square meters, authorities are not permitting repairs or new construction and are encouraging residents to agree to full land acquisition for resettlement. For properties with existing structures on less than 9 square meters, the city currently lacks specific regulations on minimum plot sizes for building permits. While the old Binh Thanh District People's Committee had previously requested guidance from the Department of Construction and the Department of Planning and Architecture, no specific rules have been issued. The ward is proposing additions to the draft architectural management regulations for Ho Chi Minh City. However, current construction laws and design standards, which stipulate a minimum bedroom size of 9 square meters for a single bed, mean these small plots are not eligible for new housing permits. Existing structures will be allowed to remain as they are, with repairs and renovations permitted only to ensure safety and basic living conditions.