Bengaluru's PG rules: what licensing, CCTV and space norms mean for residents

Bengaluru has the country's deepest PG market, and in 2024–25 it also became the most closely regulated. If you live in or are moving to a PG in the city, here's what the rules mean for you.

2024: police and civic rules

In January 2024, Bengaluru City Police required PG owners to hold a BBMP trade licence, install CCTV and maintain resident records. In August 2024, BBMP issued licensing guidelines covering CCTV at entry and exit points with footage retention, minimum space per resident and food hygiene. PG owners objected to some norms — especially 70 sq ft per person and long CCTV retention — and BBMP extended deadlines while signalling revisions.

How many PGs comply?

A BBMP survey in September 2024 found 2,193 authorised and 2,320 unauthorised PGs across eight zones; 1,261 were non-compliant and 21 were shut. Separate reports noted hundreds of PGs sealed for not following rules.

2025: the High Court steps in

In September 2025, the Karnataka High Court issued guidelines on identification, licensing, inspection and fire safety for PGs — and specifically barred CCTV in bedrooms, bathrooms and other private spaces.

A resident's checklist

• Ask whether the PG has a valid trade licence.
• Check CCTV covers entrances and corridors — not rooms or bathrooms.
• Look for fire extinguishers and clear exits on every floor.
• Expect ID verification at move-in; it's part of the rules.