Since the first of its kind was built at Tiong Bahru’s Jalan Klinik in 1963, ground floor void decks have become a ubiquitous feature of HDB flats in Singapore. These open, sheltered common spaces are designed to foster community interaction and serve as multipurpose areas for residents.
Besides where our letter boxes are, void decks are often also equipped with benches, tables, bicycle racks and even small convenience stores (mama shops) at older estates and childcare facilities. Those growing up in the 80s to early 2000s will also fondly remember playing football illegally in void decks.
Furthermore, void decks are strategically designed to enhance the accessibility of HDB estates, providing covered shelters across multiple blocks and easier access to elevators, which makes them especially convenient during rainy weather.
This thoughtful use of communal spaces reflects Singapore’s emphasis on community-building with urban design. Managed by the different Town Councils, booking an HDB void deck for an event might seem like a cumbersome process, but it really does not take long.
This guide outlines what you need to know about booking an HDB void deck for your next function or event.
What You Can Use HDB Void Decks For
Void decks can be booked up to 3 to 6 months in advance so you should plan ahead to avoid vacancy issues. Commonly used for variety of events and functions such as weddings, birthday parties, funeral wakes, and religious functions (like 7th month and Hari Raya prayers etc.), void decks are an inexpensive and readily available venue for nearby residents.
You can easily invite neighbours, friends and family around the estate to participate in your function. As void decks are also built to be wheelchair-friendly in the first place, they can be an easy location for elderly guests to access.
Do note that booking fees usually also include costs for water, electricity, and a refundable deposit.
How Much Does It Cost To Book A HDB Void Deck
Booking a HDB void deck comes with a set of fees that varies depending on the nature and duration of your event. The typical charges, which are all paid directly to your Town Council with each booking and usage, include:
– A usage fee (around $20-$50 per day) for a range of social functions such as weddings and birthday parties to religious functions like Lunar Seventh Month Festival Prayers and Hari Raya Puasa/ Haji Prayers.
– Water and electricity fees (around $10-$20 per day).
– A refundable deposit (if facilities are undamaged) of up to $500, with exact pricing within that range being dependent on the type of event.
For funeral wakes, the usage fee is waived for all Town Councils, though you would still need to cover water and electricity costs except for bookings made at certain town councils, including Sembawang Town Council, Holland Bukit Panjang Town Council and Marsiling Yew Tee Town Council.
Read Also: Singaporeans’ Guide To Understanding Town Councils And Their Service & Conservancy Charges
How To Book An HDB Void Deck For Your Event Or Function
Though the process for booking a void deck are generally similar across town councils, there may be slight differences. Here are the key steps you need to take:
#1 Check Your Eligibility To Book
To book an HDB void deck, you need to be a resident of the precinct. Non-residents may not be eligible to make a reservation, so it is essential to check your residency status before proceeding. Additionally, the applicant must be at least 21 years old.
#2 Contacting Your Town Council
You can make a booking for the void deck through a phone call appointment with the Town Council managing your estate, an online application from your Town Council’s website or via the LifeSG app.
Town Councils oversee the use of common properties such as void decks, ensuring that they are used responsibly and in compliance with local regulations. As a reiteration, all void deck bookings can be made up to 3 to 6 months in advance and are allocated on a first-come, first-served basis.
#3 Submitting Required Documents
When booking, you will need to present the necessary documents, which would include:
– Your NRIC (for identity verification)
– Event-specific documents such as a marriage certificate for weddings, a death certificate for funerals or a birth certificate for birthday celebrations
– A signed undertaking which will be provided to you by your Town Council with each booking to follow relevant rules and regulations for using the space
After which, you will be issued your permit to use the void deck for your function. If it is a social function such as weddings and birthday celebrations, do note to submit information on your tentage, caterer and LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas) supplier if applicable to your Town Council within 1 month after permit has been issued.
#4 Following The Guidelines
Each Town Council has specific guidelines for booking void decks. These cover noise controls, cleaning up after your event and decoration limits. Do adhere to these rules to avoid penalties or forfeiture of your deposit.
For instance, usage of light emitting & inflatables at funeral wakes would require you to adhere to additional guidelines provided by the Town Council. And if you are using tentages, caterers, or sound systems, ensure that you coordinate with your suppliers and the Town Council regarding setup and teardown timings.
Void Decks Are An Inexpensive, Practical Event Space Right At Your Doorstep
Booking an HDB void deck offers a practical, affordable, and community-oriented venue option for a variety of functions in Singapore. These spaces are not only essential in fostering neighborhood interaction but also exemplify the thoughtful integration of community spaces within HDB estates.
With steps outlined by each Town Council – from checking eligibility to following booking guidelines – reserving a void deck for functions like weddings, birthdays, and religious gatherings can be a straightforward process with a bit of preparation.
By following this guide and planning ahead, you can host a memorable and meaningful function or event right within the heart of your community, fostering the communal spirit in your estate.
Read Also: How Much Service & Conservancy Charges (S&CC) Do You Pay Each Month (And Rebates You Receive)?
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