B1 Industrial Classification for Industrial Property in Singapore

Screenshot 2025-02-10 at 17-00-47 URA SPACE

Master Plan

The Master Plan of Singapore is a statutory land use plan developed and maintained by the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA). It serves as a comprehensive guide for the physical development of Singapore over the next 10 to 15 years. The Master Plan designates specific zones for various land uses, including residential, commercial, industrial, and recreational purposes. Industrial zones, including B1 industrial zones, are clearly illustrated in the Master Plan.

The Master Plan includes detailed zoning maps that show the designated use of every parcel of land in Singapore. Industrial zones are color-coded, and B1 industrial zones are typically labeled or differentiated from other industrial zones.

The Master Plan includes a legend that explains the color codes and labels for different zones.  B1 industrial zones are usually marked as "Business 1" or "Light Industrial" zones and coloured coded in light purple, distinguishing them from "Business 2" (B2) or "Business Park" zones.

B1 Industrial Classification

In Singapore, industrial properties are classified into different categories based on their intended use and the level of environmental impact they may have. The B1 Industrial Classification refers to light and clean industrial activities that are non-polluting and have minimal impact on the surrounding environment. These buildings are designed to accommodate industries that do not produce significant noise, smoke, or other forms of pollution.

Key Characteristics of B1 Industrial Buildings:

  1. Light and Clean Operations: B1 industrial buildings are intended for industries that involve light manufacturing, assembly, or processing activities. These activities are typically low-impact and do not produce significant emissions or waste.
  2. Location: B1 industrial buildings are usually located in areas that are zoned by the Urban Redevelopment Singapore (URA) for B1 industrial use, sometimes in close proximity to residential areas due to their low environmental impact.
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Types of Trade Allowed in B1 Industrial Buildings:

The following are examples of activities and trades that are typically permitted in B1 industrial buildings:

  1. Light Manufacturing:
    • Assembly of electronic components.
    • Production of small consumer goods.
    • Packaging and labeling operations.
  1. Research and Development (R&D):
    • Laboratories for product testing and development.
    • Prototyping and design activities.
  1. Warehousing and Storage:
    • Storage of non-hazardous materials.
    • Distribution centers for light goods.
  1. Office-Based Industrial Activities:
    • Administrative offices for industrial operations.
    • Sales and marketing offices for industrial products.
  1. Creative and Media Industries:
    • Graphic design and printing services.
    • Media production and post-production activities.
  1. Food and Beverage Processing:
    • Light food processing (e.g., baking, packaging of dry goods).
    • Non-alcoholic beverage production.
  1. High-Tech Industries:
    • Software development and IT services.
    • Biotechnology and medical device manufacturing (non-hazardous).
  1. Service-Oriented Trades:
    • Equipment repair and maintenance (non-heavy machinery).
    • Light engineering services.
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Restrictions in B1 Industrial Buildings:

While B1 industrial buildings allow a wide range of light industrial activities, there are restrictions to ensure compliance with environmental and zoning regulations:

  • No Heavy Machinery: Activities involving heavy machinery or large-scale manufacturing are not permitted.
  • No Hazardous Materials: Storage or use of hazardous materials is prohibited.
  • No High-Noise Operations: Activities that generate significant noise or vibrations are not allowed.
  • No Polluting Processes: Processes that produce smoke, fumes, or other pollutants are not permitted.

Allowable Usage

60% of all industrial units in Singapore have to be allocated to production and 40%  for ancillary use.  

Some examples from URA that are suitable for B1 usage are:

MINIMUM USAGE OF 60%, ALLOWABLE USES: 

  • Manufacturing (Light Industries)
  • Printing/Publishing
  • Food Industry (Only for Packing)
  • E-Business
  • Core Media
  • Industrial Training

MAXIMUM USAGE OF 40%,  ANCILLARY USES: 

  • Ancillary Office
  • Showroom
  • Meeting Room
  • Childcare Centre
  • Industrial Canteen
  • Ancillary Display Area

Examples of trade not allowable in B1 Light Industrial properties are:

  • Finance office, bank, insurance company, stock exchange.
  • Real estate housing agency.
  • Contractors, transport office.
  • Professional: Consultant/architect/engineer/
  • lawyer/accountant.
  • Employment agency, secretarial services.
  • Astrologers/palmists.
  • Security office.
  • Political party office.