Karnataka government issued new fire safety rules on January 9, 2026, for hospital buildings below 20.99 meters in height. These norms give small hospitals, clinics, diagnostic centers, and day-care facilities clear guidelines for fire clearances required under the Karnataka Private Medical Establishments Act (KPMEA). The Home Department order asks the Fire and Emergency Services to grant fire advisory certificates based on building height and size, not for the whole building. Hospitals outside the non high-rise category must follow equipment rules from the National Building Code. Earlier, many small facilities faced delays because fire clearances were given only for entire buildings, delaying KPMEA registration and renewals, especially for rented spaces in multi-storey buildings. Local authorities often had to get Bengaluru’s nod, slowing approvals in far-off districts. The new order classifies healthcare facilities by height, floor area, bed capacity, and function, prescribing matching safety steps. The Health Department will check compliance, and fire services can inspect anytime. The Indian Medical Association - Karnataka State Branch praised the move. IMA president Veerabhadraiah T.A. said, “This Government Order is a progressive and timely step. Patient safety admits of no compromise and any framework that strengthens safety while ensuring ethical and uninterrupted healthcare deserves support.” He noted Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu already use similar hospital-specific fire safety rules. IMA urged medical facilities to fully follow the new norms. This step promises faster clearances and safer healthcare across Karnataka.