What are the standard drawing sheet sizes?

The code specifies A-series sizes such as A0 (841x1189 mm), A1 (594x841 mm), A2 (420x594 mm), etc., as detailed in Table 2.

What scale should be used for a floor plan?

For general arrangement drawings like floor plans, elevations, and sections, a scale of 1:100 or 1:50 is recommended as per Table 1.

What information is mandatory in a drawing's title block?

Clause 5 specifies that the title block must include the project title, drawing title, drawing number, scale(s), date, and details of the responsible architect/engineer/firm.

What are the recommended line thicknesses for drawings?

Clause 6.1 specifies using at least two line thicknesses, a thick and a thin line, with the ratio between them being not less than 2:1. For example, 0.6 mm for outlines and 0.3 mm for dimension lines.

IS 7973

: 1976

Code of practice for architectural and building working drawings

CurrentFrequently UsedCode of PracticeBIMArchitectural · Planning, Housing and Pre-fabricated Construction

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This code of practice establishes the standards for preparing architectural and building working drawings. It covers essential aspects such as drawing sheet sizes, scales, line types, lettering, dimensioning, and the layout of title blocks, ensuring clarity and consistency in construction documentation.

Code of practice for architectural and building working drawings

Quick Reference Values

Recommended scale for floor plans1:50 or 1:100

Recommended scale for site plans1:200 or 1:500

Recommended scale for detailed drawings1:20, 1:10 or 1:5

Dimension of A1 drawing sheet594 mm x 841 mm

Dimension of A2 drawing sheet420 mm x 594 mm

Minimum height for titles and headings6 mm

Minimum height for general text and dimensioning2.5 mm

Practical Notes

Although written for manual drafting, its principles on line weights, scales, and notation are fundamental and directly applicable to modern CAD and BIM workflows.

Adherence to a consistent title block format (Clause 5) is crucial for project management and document control on site and during approvals.

This standard is foundational for preparing drawings for submission to municipal and other statutory authorities.