No DC approval needed for land conversion under approved master plans: Karnataka government issues major order

Revenue Department amends Karnataka Land Revenue Act to simplify land-use conversion for properties falling within approved master plans

In a major reform aimed at simplifying land-use regulations, the Karnataka government has issued a significant order allowing design and land-use approvals for properties falling under approved master plans without the need for district-level permissions.

The decision follows an amendment made by the Revenue Department to Section 95 of the Karnataka Land Revenue Act, 1964, aligning it with provisions under the Karnataka Town and Country Planning Act, 1961.

Under the revised rule, lands located within the limits of government-approved master plans will no longer require permission from the Deputy Commissioner (DC) for conversion from agricultural to non-agricultural purposes.

Instead, landowners can proceed with land-use change strictly in line with the land-use classification mentioned in the approved master plan, provided they obtain necessary permissions from the concerned planning authority.

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This move aims to reduce procedural delays, streamline approvals, and ensure faster urban and rural development, especially in rapidly growing areas.

The amendment specifically updates Section 95 of the Karnataka Land Revenue Act, 1964, which earlier mandated district administration approval for agricultural land conversion.

With this change, properties covered under sanctioned master plans will be governed primarily by planning authorities, as per the Karnataka Town and Country Planning Act, 1961.

Although Deputy Commissioner approval is no longer required, landowners will still need to pay the conversion fee prescribed under Section 95(7).

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However, this fee does not need to be paid through the district administration. Instead:

•    The conversion fee must be paid directly to the concerned planning authority
•    Payment should be made along with a self-declaration
•    This process applies while seeking necessary planning approvals

Officials say the reform will:

•    Speed up land conversion processes
•    Reduce administrative burden
•    Improve ease of doing business
•    Encourage planned urban expansion
•    Provide clarity to landowners and developers