Tamil Nadu Introduces Self-Certification for Stilt + Two-Floor Residences

In a landmark move aimed at reducing bureaucratic hurdles and promoting efficient housing development, the Tamil Nadu government has introduced a self-certification system for residential structures with stilt + two floors. This reform seeks to streamline the building approval process, especially for low- and middle-income families, ensuring quicker project initiation and completion.

Let us delve into the key aspects and potential impact of this initiative on homebuyers, small-scale builders, and the real estate industry in Tamil Nadu.

Expanding the Self-Certification System

The Tamil Nadu government had earlier introduced a single-window online approval system for ground + 1-floor residences. Building on this success, the new self-certification framework allows residential structures with stilt+two floors to secure permits through the same streamlined process.

This initiative eliminates the need for prolonged bureaucratic procedures and empowers homeowners to begin construction immediately after obtaining approvals online.

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Model Building Plans for Better Accessibility

To assist applicants, the Tamil Nadu government plans to release model building plans, including elevation and sectional drawings. These plans cater to plots up to 2,500 sqft and built-up areas of up to 3,500 sqft, specifically targeting the housing needs of low- and middle-income families.

While this is a welcome development, industry experts like S Sridharan, Vice-President of Credai National, South, suggest that the built-up area limit should be increased to 10,000 sqft with proportional plot size adjustments to accommodate larger housing projects.

Wider Application: Cottage Industries and Green Factories

The self-certification system is not limited to residential buildings. The Tamil Nadu government has extended the provision to cottage industries and green factories with a built-up area of up to 500 sqm. This expansion underscores the government’s commitment to fostering small-scale industries and environmentally sustainable development.

Encouraging Professional Collaboration

Another significant update is the inclusion of registered town planning professionals in the self-certification process. These professionals are now authorized to work across corporations and municipalities, enhancing the scope and efficiency of the approval system.

Rural Development and Relaxed Regulations

Recognizing the unique challenges faced by rural areas, the Tamil Nadu government has eased construction regulations for village panchayat regions. The minimum road access width for construction has been reduced from seven to six meters, simplifying the process for small-scale builders and individual homeowners.

Other reforms include relaxed side setback norms for row and group housing projects, providing additional flexibility to developers.

Regularization of Unapproved Layouts

In a welcome move, the Tamil Nadu government has announced that individual plots in unapproved layouts registered before October 20, 2016, are now eligible for regularization without any time constraints.This move is expected to benefit thousands of property owners who have been awaiting clarity and relief on this issue.

Educational Infrastructure: A Progressive Step

The reforms also address the construction of school buildings near water bodies and along highways. Schools near water bodies can now secure approvals, provided safety standards are met and no openings face the water side. Similarly, schools along national or state highways can obtain permission if the management develops dedicated service roads, ensuring accessibility and safety.

Digital Governance: Simplifying the Process

To enhance the efficiency of the self-certification system, the Tamil Nadu government is developing a mobile app under the single-window system. This app will offer technical support, streamline applications, and make the entire process user-friendly.

A comprehensive planning unit will also be established to oversee the implementation of these reforms, ensuring consistency and transparency.

New Housing Board Projects

Complementing these regulatory changes, the Tamil Nadu government is also focusing on new land development projects in the Tiruvallur and Salem districts. Additionally, the Tamil Nadu Housing Board has announced a ₹65 crore investment in rental housing units for government officials in Thalavadi, Erode. These projects aim to meet the growing housing demand and provide affordable living options for government employees.

Conclusion

The self-certification initiative by the Tamil Nadu government marks a transformative step in simplifying the building approval process. By cutting bureaucratic delays, introducing model building plans, and extending the system to rural areas, cottage industries, and green factories, the government has created an ecosystem that fosters growth, inclusivity, and sustainability.

These reforms not only address the housing needs of low- and middle-income families but also contribute to rural development, ease of doing business, and infrastructure modernization. With additional measures like the regularization of unapproved layouts and digital governance initiatives, the Tamil Nadu government has set a benchmark for progressive real estate policies in India.

For aspiring homeowners, small-scale builders, and industry professionals, these changes signal a brighter and more efficient future for housing development in Tamil Nadu.

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