How to Obtain DTCP Approval for Panchayat-Approved Plots

Over the past thirty years, panchayat-approved plots, No Objection Certificate (NOC) plots, and unapproved plots were banned from registration by the Chennai High Court in October 2016. 

As a result, until the end of 2017, it was impossible to buy, sell, or register such plots, leaving many transactions in limbo. In response to continuous requests from real estate developers and buyers, the government issued a regularization order (Government Order No. 78) in late 2017 to address this issue.

However, the implementation of the government order faced some practical challenges and the regularization fees were considered high. The government then made amendments to the order to accommodate these concerns.

The DTCP (Directorate of Town and Country Planning) office has set several deadlines for regularization applications and is reviewing them accordingly. Given the vast number of plots across Tamil Nadu, it is expected that the DTCP will continue to provide extensions to complete the regularization process.

Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it is anticipated that there will be further leniency in deadlines. Therefore, it is advisable to wait until government offices resume full operations to proceed with these applications. Meanwhile, it is important to stay informed about the process.

There are two methods to regularize the plots in your possession:

1. Promoter Regularization:

   - This involves the promoter who created the layout regularizing the remaining unsold plots.

2. Individual Regularization:

   - This involves individual plot owners applying for regularization for their respective plots.

 Individual Plot Regularization Process:

1. Initial Verification:

   - Visit the DTCP office to check if your plots are eligible for regularization or if they fall under temporarily restricted areas (such as hills or water bodies).

2. Online Application:

   - Apply online through the website tnlayouts.com. The site offers four options:

     1. DTCP Entry for Individual Plots

     2. DTCP Entry for Full Layouts

     3. CMDA Entry for Individual Plots

     4. CMDA Entry for Full Layouts

   - Select the appropriate link and apply online. The application fee is ₹500 per plot.

3. Preparation of Documents:

   - Hire an engineer to create a map that separates your plot from the larger layout. This map must match the government survey number maps precisely.

   - Create three blueprints of the map in A3 size.

   - Have all documents, including the sale deed, parent documents, chitta, adangal, patta, and survey map notarized.

4. Patta Update:

   - Ensure the patta is updated in your name. At least, your name should be included in a joint patta.

5. Submission:

   - Submit all these documents to the DTCP office. They will review the documents, stamp them, and forward them to the local authority (Panchayat Union, Municipality, or Corporation).

   - Pay the regularization fee at the local authority office based on your application.

   - The local authority will then send the application back to the DTCP office.

   - The DTCP will stamp your map and provide an approval number.

 Additional Valuable Points:

Legal Verification:

   - Ensure there are no legal disputes or encumbrances on the property. Conduct a thorough verification of the property’s legal status before proceeding with the application.

Engage a Lawyer:

   - Consult a competent civil lawyer to assist with the application process and ensure all documents are in order. This can help avoid potential legal complications.

Survey and Verification:

   - Conduct a physical survey of the property to ensure there are no encroachments or deviations from the original layout plan.

Government Guidelines:

   - Stay updated with government guidelines and any changes in the regularization process. This can help you comply with all necessary regulations and avoid delays.

Documentation:

   - Keep all documentation organized and ready for submission. Ensure that all required documents are notarized and meet the specifications set by the DTCP.

Follow-up:

   - Regularly follow up with the DTCP and local authority offices to track the progress of your application. Timely follow-ups can help expedite the process.

By following these steps and points, you can successfully navigate the process of obtaining DTCP approval for panchayat-approved plots, ensuring your property is legally compliant and free from future disputes.