Bali Considers Modifying Ancient Height Restriction Law to Boost Tourism Development
Bali, Indonesia — The Bali Regional People’s Representative Council is discussing potential amendments to longstanding building height regulations rooted in the Balinese Hindu philosophy Tri Hita Karana, which emphasizes harmony among people, nature, and the spiritual realms. For centuries, Bali has enforced a customary law limiting structures to the height of a coconut tree—approximately 15 meters—to preserve cultural values and environmental balance.
Addressing growing development pressures and land constraints, Made Suparta, Chairman of the Bali Regional People’s Representative Council’s Special Committee on Planning, Assets and Licensing (DPRD TRAP), supports introducing a ‘Value-Based Special (Differential) Height Zoning’ policy. This policy would allow certain designated zones to permit buildings up to 45 meters tall, notably in coastal areas such as Tabanan and Gianyar Regency (including Tanah Lot and Keramas Beach), parts of Sanur, Nusa Dua, and South Kuta’s Bukit Peninsula.
Suparta explained that existing restrictions in sacred and core cultural areas would remain, with exemptions applied only in specific zones to better manage development and reduce unauthorized building activities. “If there are no adaptive regulations, permit smuggling could occur. This is what we want to anticipate with special zoning,” he said, emphasizing the goal of providing developers with clear guidelines to maximize construction within the new framework.
However, the proposal has met with caution from some local leaders. Nyoman Kenak, Chairman of the Indonesian Hindu Dharma Society (PHRI), voiced concerns over the rapid pace of the discussion. He stressed the need for comprehensive scientific studies examining environmental, cultural, and spatial planning impacts before any regulatory changes are implemented. Kenak highlighted that the jump from a 15-meter limit to 45 meters is substantial and called for clarity on how current height limits are measured—pointing out that they are based on sea level rather than terrain elevation, which poses challenges in Bali’s varied topography.
Kenak urged an inclusive approach grounded in research, stating, “If the study proves feasible, then go ahead. But everyone must accept the results. The bottom line is that the study is the most important thing… Let’s not regret it later; this concerns Bali’s future.”
The debate reflects ongoing tensions in Bali between preserving traditional cultural values and accommodating the demands of a growing tourism industry. Policymakers continue to explore balanced solutions to sustain Bali’s unique heritage while promoting responsible development.
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