Update on order 5/2025 for collective accommodation housing units

The Federation of Employers and Industrialists (OEB) reports that Order No. 5/2025 was issued by the Minister of Interior, Mr. Konstantinos Ioannou, on December 10, 2025. The order provides guidelines for urban planning authorities regarding the construction of Housing Units of Collective Accommodation.

The order recognizes the socio-economic importance of these units, which accommodate up to twelve tenants with a common entrance and exit. It aims to facilitate their development in specific zones while minimizing environmental and neighborhood impacts.

Collective Accommodation Units can be developed in properties within Commercial Zones, Axes of Activities, or areas designated for commercial development, with restrictions on ground-floor location unless specific policies are met. They are also permitted within Tourist Zones, where kitchens or living areas are not required if prior consultation with the Deputy Ministry of Tourism is completed.

Additional allowances include development in properties near Tourist, Industrial, or Craft Zones, or adjacent to primary roads, to support housing needs of workers in industrial or craft areas.

Parking requirements specify one space per six bedrooms, or one per twelve rooms if served by a bus or minibus linked to the workplace. Bicycle and moped parking is required at one space per bed, reduced to one per two beds in cases of transport service to workplaces.

Urban planning restrictions limit building size, height, and coverage according to the zone’s regulations. In Residential Zones, development is restricted to a maximum of thirty beds per plot, with a total of no more than five hundred beds within 500 meters radius. Development plans may reduce building factors to 70% in residential zones.

The use of collective accommodation units as short-term or tourist accommodation is prohibited. The Director of Development Licensing will conduct periodic inspections to ensure compliance and prevent misuse.

For further information, contact Mr. Panagiotis Papouis at 22 867 865 or via email at ppapouis@moi.gov.cy.