General

FCD Application Process Flowchart

A step-by-step overview of the FCD regulatory approval pathway in Singapore — from feasibility study through to MOM licence and operation.

FCD Application Process Flowchart
Ivan30 Apr 2026
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Process Guide

Factory Converted Dormitory (FCD)
Application Process

A step-by-step overview of the FCD regulatory approval pathway in Singapore, from initial feasibility through to MOM licence and operation.

Feasibility & Strategy
Design & Approval
Execution & Operation
Feasibility & Strategy
01

Feasibility Study

  • Red zone / specific planning area check
  • Preliminary capacity study
  • Verify approved Gross Floor Area (GFA) and usage
  • Carry out planning search / site visit
  • Ensure dormitory use within allowable usage quantum — ancillary / secondary use: up to 49% GFA
  • Identify upgrading scope required / site constraint
02

Pre-Consultation & In-Principle No Objection (IPNO)

  • Preliminary layout plans
  • Submission for IPNO from relevant agencies e.g. SCDF, LTA, NEA, PUB, JTC cluster prior to formal application.
  • IPNO submissions are centralised via the IPNO Portal on GoBusiness — a single submission channel to the relevant agencies.
  • For PUB Form J IPNO — submit latest 6 months SP water bill for existing premise and MCST no objection letter.
Design & Approval
03

Detail Design and Planning

  • Detailed architectural plans (layout, room types, amenities, etc.)
  • Building structural assessment / PE endorsement
  • SCDF – Building plan for compliance with fire code
  • BCA – Accessibility / BFA compliance
  • URA – Dormitory amenity schedule (recreation, commercial, etc.)
  • MOM – Requirements e.g. isolation rooms, ensuite facilities, etc.
  • NEA – Refuse output computation, etc.
  • PUB – Sanitary, sewerage and surface drainage
04

Authority Submissions

  • URA – Change of use / planning permission
  • BCA – Building plan approval / Structural Plan Approval (structural & architectural)
  • SCDF – Fire safety plan approval
  • PUB – Sanitary/Sewerage & drainage clearance
  • NEA – Environmental health & pollution control clearance
  • LTA – Road/transport impact / vehicle parking
  • JTC – Plan consent application
  • MOM – Dormitory licence pre-application
Execution & Operation
05

Construction & A&A Works

  • Appoint licensed builder
  • Carry out additions & alterations (A&A) per approved plans
  • Structural upgrading works (if required)
  • M&E installation (fire sprinklers, automatic fire alarms, plumbing & sanitary, ACMV)
06

Inspections & TOP/CSC

  • QP completion inspection
  • Registered inspector's inspection on completed fire safety related works
  • PUB drainage & sanitary/sewerage inspection — if required
  • Temporary Occupation Permit (TOP) / CSC application
07

MOM Dormitory Licence & Operation

  • Appoint dormitory operator
  • Prepare resident management system
  • Submit MOM licence application with all clearances via the GoBusiness Dashboard (dashboard.gobusiness.gov.sg)
  • MOM dormitory site inspection
  • Obtain FEDA licence
  • Commence operations upon licence grant
  • Annual licence renewal & periodic inspections

This process guide is for general reference only. Specific requirements may vary depending on site conditions, building age, and prevailing regulatory codes. Consult a Qualified Person (QP) and relevant authorities before proceeding.