Real estate ownership is one of the biggest investments most people make in their lifetime. But what happens when your plot in Krishnagiri—bought with dreams of building a home or investing for the future—turns out to be unapproved by the planning authorities? That’s where regularization and DTCP approval in Krishnagiri comes into play. In this blog, we’ll break down everything you need to know about regularizing such plots, why it’s crucial, and exactly how to navigate the process.
Understanding Unapproved Plots in Krishnagiri
An “unapproved plot” refers to a parcel of land that has been subdivided and sold without obtaining necessary permissions under the Tamil Nadu Town and Country Planning Act, 1971. In Krishnagiri, like the rest of Tamil Nadu, many plots were sold over the years without proper sanction from the Directorate of Town and Country Planning (DTCP) or relevant local planning authority.
Such plots are legally unrecognised, which means:
Banks typically refuse home loans or mortgages on these properties.
Local authorities may deny basic utilities like water or electricity connections.
Transfer or registration of the plot can be blocked due to lack of formal approval.
Why DTCP Approval in Krishnagiri Matters
DTCP approval is the most important certification because it formally legalizes the layout pattern of a plot or sub-division under the planning law. Once you have DTCP approval:
Your plot becomes legally recognized, making it easier to sell, transfer, or develop.
You gain legal title security, which is essential for banks and financial institutions.
You conform to land-use and planning standards meant to protect public interest.
In Krishnagiri district, the local DTCP office is the competent authority that approves layout plans and oversees the regularization of unapproved layouts and individual plots.
Who Is Eligible for Regularization?
Under the Tamil Nadu Regularisation of Unapproved Layouts and Plots Rules, 2017:
Only plots sold or registered through a registered sale deed on or before 20 October 2016 are eligible for regularization.
Unsold plots in a layout may also be eligible if some part of the layout was sold before the cut-off date.
Plots located in public water bodies or restricted areas are generally not eligible.
This date is crucial—if your plot was registered after this cut-off, you may not qualify for regularization under the amnesty scheme, and alternative processes or penalties may apply.
Step-by-Step Guide to Regularize Unapproved Plots in Krishnagiri
Let’s walk through the process in simple, actionable steps:
1. Confirm Eligibility
Start by checking whether your plot meets the eligibility conditions:
✔ Registered sale deed date on or before 20 October 2016.
✔ Not falling in prohibited areas like water bodies.
If the plot doesn’t qualify, you may need to consult a property lawyer or planner for alternate legal routes.
2. Collect and Verify All Documents
To ensure a smooth DTCP approval in Krishnagiri, you will typically need:
Registered Sale Deed or Title Deed
Encumbrance Certificate (EC) showing no legal dues
Patta or land ownership records
Field Measurement Book (FMB) sketch
Plot layout sketches and survey details
Make sure all documents match in terms of survey numbers, plot dimensions, and owner name.
3. Prepare an Application
Most regularization applications are done online through designated portals set up by Tamil Nadu government planning departments. Although earlier deadlines existed, recent government orders have made it possible to apply without a fixed cut-off deadline after June 2025.
You will need to:
Fill out the application form accurately
Upload supporting documents
Pay the required fees online (scrutiny charges, regularisation charges, etc.)
4. Pay Regularisation and Development Charges
To secure DTCP approval in Krishnagiri, you must pay statutory charges:
Scrutiny fee for processing documents
Development charges that fund infrastructure improvements
Regularisation charges based on plot size and urban/rural classification
Open Space Reservation (OSR) contribution if applicable
These charges vary depending on whether the plot is in a village, town, or municipal area.
5. Technical Scrutiny and Inspection
Once the application is submitted:
✔ DTCP or local competent authority reviews the layout details.
✔ A field inspection may be conducted to verify road widths, accessibility, and conformity.
✔ On satisfying all technical norms, authorities issue in-principle approval.
If any irregularities are found, you will be asked to rectify them before final approval.
6. Obtain Final DTCP Approval in Krishnagiri
After all conditions are met and fees are paid, DTCP approval is granted. This approval effectively regularizes your plot, making it legally recognized under the planning law.
You will receive:
An official letter from DTCP sanctioning the plot outline.
A certificate or approval number which is crucial for future transactions.
Post-Approval Benefits
With DTCP approval in Krishnagiri, you unlock important rights:
Legally transferable title
Eligibility for bank loans and mortgages
Ability to plan construction legally
Higher resale value due to clear title
Common Challenges and Tips
Missing Documents
✔ Always keep certified copies of EC, patta, and deeds up-to-date.
Plot Doesn’t Qualify
✔ Seek a qualified town planner or lawyer: alternate routes may exist.
Infrastructure Compliance
✔ Ensure plot access roads meet minimum width requirements (a common DTCP condition).
Conclusion
Regularizing unapproved plots in Krishnagiri through DTCP approval in Krishnagiri is not just a bureaucratic process—it’s a legal necessity that protects your investment and enables you to enjoy full property rights. While the process can seem complex, understanding eligibility criteria, filing requirements, and fees demystifies the entire journey.
By following the steps outlined here and avoiding common pitfalls, you can move from uncertainty to secure ownership—and if needed, professional help from planners or legal advisors can make the path smoother.