New Regulation Proposed to Require Sukkah Balconies in Residential Buildings
The National Planning Headquarters, led by Rabbi Natan Alantan, is currently advocating for a new regulation that will mandate the construction of sukkah balconies in 15-20% of the apartments in new residential buildings. This move aims to provide traditional-religious apartment buyers with a greater selection of suitable housing options across the country.
Sukkah balconies are open-air balconies that fulfill the requirements for constructing a kosher sukkah – a temporary structure used during the Jewish holiday of Sukkot. These balconies must have no construction above them, allowing the sukkah to be under the “roof of the sky.” While this presents a design and cost challenge, the National Planning Headquarters believes it is essential to accommodate the needs of religious residents.
Currently, balconies are often built in common areas of buildings, such as private parking or public spaces. The proposed regulation seeks to eliminate the need for construction in these shared areas, reducing safety risks for users. Instead, individuals would have the option to choose an apartment with a suitable sukkah balcony.
While there are height limitations on buildings due to the ban on using elevators on Shabbat, it appears that the decision regarding sukkah balconies will not be restricted to these limits. The National Planning Headquarters believes that the population prohibiting elevator usage on Shabbat in residential buildings is relatively small compared to the broader population, warranting the promotion of this new installation.
The regulation would predominantly apply to new residential buildings with four to five stories or higher. However, the National Planning Headquarters emphasizes that this is still a concept under consideration, and any implementation would be mindful of planning issues.
The decision on whether to require sukkah balconies in new residential construction will be made in the near future. If approved, this regulation would provide greater accessibility and accommodation for traditional-religious individuals seeking suitable housing options across Israel.