Pune: The Maharashtra government has made tentative layout approval mandatory prior to any land measurement, which is a major policy change intended to increase transparency and regulation in land transactions.

Implemented by the state's Land Records Department under the direction of Dr. Suhas Diwase, Settlement Commissioner and Director of Land Records, the decision aims to stop unlawful land division, stop unapproved construction, and shield purchasers from deceptive transactions. 

The New Process

Any developer or individual requesting land measurement under the updated system must first provide the appropriate authority with a draft layout plan.  The proposed division of land, roads, and open spaces will be shown in this plan.

 The Land Records Department will complete the required measurement work after receiving the preliminary layout.

 After that, the information will be sent to the local planning authority for review and approval.

 The revised and approved layout will be entered into the official land records following approval. 

This step ensures that no land measurement happens without proper planning permissions, reducing disputes and ensuring that layouts comply with development regulations.

Legal and Planning Framework

It also supports government objectives such as reserving 20% of plots (in layouts over 4 hectares) for low- and very low-income groups, thereby promoting affordable housing.

Benefits of the Rule

Transparency: Buyers can be assured that the land they are purchasing is measured and approved in accordance with legal norms.

Prevention of Fraud: Reduces the chances of illegal plotting or sale of unapproved land.

Clear Demarcation: Accurate measurements prevent future boundary disputes.

Urban Planning Compliance: Ensures layouts meet infrastructure, open space, and road requirements.

Source: Punekar News