What is a DTCP approved layout and how to find one in Chennai?

Table of Contents

  1. What Is DTCP? – Full Form of DTCP and Difference between CMDA Approved Layouts
    • What Is a DTCP Approved Layout?

  2. Why DTCP Approval Is Required?
    • Is DTCP Approval Mandatory in Tamilnadu?

  3. How to Find DTCP Approved Plot in Chennai?
    • Can I Buy Land without DTCP Approval?
    • DTCP Layout Approval Rules and Guidelines in Tamilnadu Eligibility Criteria
    • Table: DTCP Rules & Guidelines For Road Width

  4. FAQs on DTCP Approval
    • How to Check DTCP Approval for Plots?
    • How to Verify the DTCP Approval Number Online in Tamilnadu?
    • How Long It Takes to Get DTCP Approval in Tamilnadu?
    • How to Apply for DTCP Approval?
    • How Do I Know If My Plot Is DTCP & CMDA Approved?

  5. What Are the Documents Required to Get DTCP Approval?

  6. Do I Need DTCP Approval for Taking a Home Loan?

  7. Key Takeaways

What is a DTCP approved layout and how to find one in Chennai?

What Is DTCP? – Full Form of DTCP and Difference between CMDA Approved Layouts

The Directorate of Town and Country Planning (DTCP) governs urban and regional planning and development. The governing body ensures sustainable development, manages zoning regulations, and promotes balanced land utilization. CMDA primarily focuses on the comprehensive development of the Chennai metropolitan area, while DTCP is responsible for planning, regulating, and coordinating urban and rural development across the entire state of Tamil Nadu. So, if you are looking to buy plots in Chennai, you have to ensure they are CMDA approved layouts before making the purchase.

What Is a DTCP Approved Layout?

DTCP approval meaning is that a plot of land ready for construction is approved by the DTCP, which signifies that the design complies with established guidelines that it will not cause any harm to the environment as well as people. Potential buyers or investors can have confidence in the legitimacy of the development, assuring them of the property's legal and structural integrity. Such layouts provide security and trust for those seeking to invest in residential real estate.

Why DTCP Approval Is Required?

From a home buyer's point of view, it minimizes the risk of legal disputes, offers integrated infrastructure, and enhances property value. It is a must for construction, expansion, and to avail of home loans. The buyer can be sure that such a layout only will have planned infrastructure, including roads, utilities, and amenities. It adds value to the property, making it a preferable choice for future resale. Hence, it is necessary to find DTCP approved layout in Chennai to build a home or for investment.

Is DTCP Approval Mandatory in Tamilnadu?

Yes, DTCP approval is mandatory in Tamilnadu for various types of construction, including residential, commercial, and industrial buildings. Banks offer home loans after checking several documents along with DTCP approval, meaning the developers obtain the necessary approval before commencing any construction activities to avoid legal complications and ensure compliance with the law in the State of Tamilnadu.

How to Find DTCP Approved Plot in Chennai?

You can find plots that are DTCP approved in Chennai through the following avenues.


Online Real Estate Portals: Utilize online real estate websites and portals that list properties for sale.


Property Exhibitions: Attend property exhibitions or real estate events in Chennai. These events often showcase a variety of properties.


Local Newspapers and Magazines: Check local newspapers and real estate magazines for property listings.


Local Real Estate Agents: Contact reputable real estate agents like us to buy land for sale for sale in Madhavaram , which is approved by the Directorate of Town and Country Planning.


Government Websites: Visit the official DTCP website to get information about approved layouts and projects.


Network and Recommendations: Seek recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have purchased properties in Chennai. They might be able to refer you to reliable sources or agents.


Remember, you should always verify the documentation provided by sellers or agents trying to sell plots that are claimed to be DTCP approved. You can cross-check with the relevant government authorities to confirm the approval status.

Can I Buy Land without DTCP Approval?

Purchasing land without DTCP approval is strongly discouraged due to various compelling reasons. These include potential legal risks arising from non-compliance with zoning and urban planning regulations and uncertainties regarding property ownership. Such properties often lack essential infrastructure and amenities, leading to limited resale value. Additionally, environmental concerns, safety issues, and challenges in future development are common with non-approved land. The absence of DTCP approval can result in unforeseen costs, meaning anticipated legal disputes, and limitations on property development.

DTCP Layout Approval Rules and Guidelines in Tamilnadu Eligibility Criteria

As per the Building Regularization Scheme 2017 and Tamil Nadu Town & Country Planning Act 1971 under Section 113-C, the following are the road width requirement for the different types of buildings. If you are looking to invest in real estate you can explore our land for sale in Moolakadai , which are DTCP approved plots.


Building Type Number of Floors Minimum Road Width (in Meters)
Ordinary Buildings Any No specific requirement
Special Buildings Any 7m
Group Development Projects Any 7m
Multi-Storied Buildings Ground Floor + 6 Floors or Stilt + 7 Floors 9m
Multi-Storied Buildings Ground Floor + 8 Floors or Stilt + 9 Floors 12m
Multi-Storied Buildings Ground Floor + 19 Floors or Stilt + 20 Floors 15m
Multi-Storied Buildings (Height>60m) Any 18m

For further information, check the Tamilnadu Housing and Urban Development Department website https://tnbuildingreg.in/eligible_dtcp.php.

Frequently Asked Questions on DTCP Approval

#1 How to Check DTCP Approval for Plots?

You can check the credibility of DTCP approved layout by visiting the concerned DTCP office and check with the authorities using the information and documents.

#2 How to Verify the DTCP Approval Number Online in Tamilnadu?

Alternatively, you can verify DTCP approval online by visiting the link https://www.tn.gov.in/tcp/landuse.html. The website provides access to a comprehensive record of DTCP yearly approvals where you can verify the status of the land you intend to purchase. If the plot has the approval, it will be on the list of approved properties on the website.

#3 How Long It Takes to Get DTCP Approval in Tamilnadu?

In Tamil Nadu, the anticipated timeline for a layout to be DTCP approved (in case of a smooth process) typically falls within the range of 4 to 6 months from the date of application. It's important to note that this timeline can vary based on factors such as the project, documentation, and administrative processes.

#4 How to Apply for DTCP Approval?

In Chennai developers and land owners can apply for DTCP approval and get their land CMDA approved through the Tamil Nadu Housing and building regulation website. All the necessary documents must be submitted online in the required format along with the application form by making the designated payment to initiate the approval process.

#5 How Do I Know If My Plot Is DTCP & CMDA Approved?

  • Review your property documents, including the sale deed and land title papers, to ascertain potential DTCP approval details.
  • Pay a visit to the local town planning or municipal office for insights into your plot's approval status.
  • Consult the real estate agent to confirm whether the plot you bought from him in Chennai is CMDA approved.
  • Consult a legal expert who can provide professional guidance to verify the DTCP approval status, thus ensuring a secure investment.

What Are the Documents Required to Get DTCP Approval?

Ensuring the plots are DTCP approved requires documents varying across different states. Land or plots acquired in Chennai require the following documents for initial approval.


  • Application form for DTCP approval.
  • Attested document of registration of ownership.
  • Survey sketch or copy of the village plan featuring the proposed site.
  • Extract of the master plan or indicative land use plan with the proposed site highlighted.
  • A detailed plan showing nearby features within a 500-meter radius. (Residential real estate, educational institutions, medical facilities, religious institutions).
  • A site plan depicting road widths, building setbacks, and parking areas.
  • Certificate from the local authority (commissioner/panchayat secretary) confirming road access details.
  • Certificate from a competent authority indicating the proposed building's distance from water bodies.
  • No Objection Certificate (NOC) from fire and emergency services.
  • NOC from the state Pollution Control Board (if applicable).
  • NOC from the irrigation department (if applicable).
  • NOC from the revenue department (if applicable).
  • Infrastructure plans include drainage, sewage, water supply, and electricity.
  • Environmental clearance certificate.
  • Certificate of land conversion issued by the revenue authority.
  • Title clearance certificate to verify the absence of legal disputes.
  • Encumbrance certificate.
  • Certificate from the local authority confirming road width and nature/status of access roads.

Remember these document requirements can vary and applicable based on the specific project and region.

Do I Need DTCP Approval for Taking a Home Loan?

Yes. DTCP approval is a mandatory for individuals seeking home loans from banks. In case you buy plot in Chennai it should be CMDA approved to start construction and you will have to provide documents that solidify the approval of the building plans by the DTCP to avail financing from the bank.

Key Takeaways

  • DTCP approved layout refers to a real estate development plan that has received authorization from the Directorate of Town and Country Planning (DTCP).
  • DTCP approval is mandatory for plot construction and for obtaining home loans.
  • The land owner or the developer should provide all the required documents to get the approval.
  • The approval certificate serves as official validation of the plot or land.
  • You can find DTCP approved plots in Chennai by approaching a reliable real estate builder and reputable real estate company.
  • You can verify a plot's DTCP approval status online through the Tamil Nadu housing authority website.