Disputes Over Shoe Racks and Flower Pots Outside Flats Grow in Bengaluru Apartments

Bengaluru, June 3 – Placing shoe racks and flower pots outside flat doors has sparked ongoing disputes in apartment complexes across Bengaluru. While many residents say it is part of their culture and helps keep homes clean, apartment associations argue that such items violate rules and pose safety risks in shared spaces.

Residents Cite Cleanliness, Culture

Several residents say that keeping shoes outside helps maintain hygiene, especially after the COVID-19 pandemic. “We can’t allow helpers or drivers to enter with footwear due to health concerns,”

Umesh Srivastava, a committee member at Krishvi Wisteria Apartments in Whitefield, said, “Leaving footwear outside is a traditional habit. It should be allowed if it doesn’t block safety equipment like fire extinguishers.”

A young resident from Vasundara Nest Apartments, Kanakapura Road, shared that while restrictions were strict earlier, many now keep shoe racks outside. “Technically it’s still not allowed, but people do it. We’re asked to remove them if someone complains,” she said.

Apartment Associations Concerned About Safety

Housing associations stress the importance of keeping common areas clear for emergency use. Items like shoe racks, pots, or safety gates may block access or cause accidents. Many associations have imposed restrictions or fines for violations.

At Rohan Vasantha Apartments in Marathahalli, the association has clear rules. President Prabhu Sen said, “We do not allow permanent structures outside flats. Movable shoe racks are fine, but permanent ones can block emergency paths. We issue warnings first and fine ₹1,000 if residents don’t comply.”

So far, six to seven residents have been fined, and some racks were removed by the management.

Legal Action in Some Cases

At HM Tambourine Apartments in JP Nagar 6th Phase, a group of residents issued a legal notice to the housing association after being asked to remove their shoe racks. They said the racks had not caused any issues for years and called the ₹100-per-day fine unfair and harassing.

Associations Struggle with Policy

Many housing societies are confused about how to handle such complaints. A member of a Brigade apartment association in Whitefield said, “We get mixed responses. Some want to keep racks outside; others complain. There is no clear legal rule, so we ask residents to remove them from time to time, without always imposing a fine.”

Ongoing Debate

As apartment living becomes more common in Indian cities, the clash between personal practices and community rules continues. Without a clear legal framework, both residents and apartment associations are left to handle the matter through discussions and internal policies.