Building two-storey Masjids

Q: We are now building a Masjid (mosque) on Kharies Road, Al-Nasim district in accordance to the attached building license. We have built a basement and the first floor. However, it became obvious that we should build another floor, so that the Masjid would consist of a basement and two floors, because the district is overpopulated and Masjids are few. We have submitted a request to the municipality of Riyadh to give us a license to build a second floor, but they refused on the grounds that it is impermissible. Is it permissible to build a Masjid of two or more floors? Please, advise us.

(Part No. 6; Page No. 236) A: It is permissible to build a Masjid of two or more floors when necessary. It should be taken into consideration that the Ma'mums (persons being led by an Imam in Prayer) should stand behind and close to the Imam, for the evidence on the preference of the first rows and standing close to the Imam.May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.