Official guidance, Tamil Nadu land law
G.O.(Ms.)No.53, Introduction of Provision for Issue of Construction Continuance Certificate and Completion Certificate, 2018
The Housing and Urban Development [UD4(3)] Department issued G.O.(Ms.)No.53 dated 16.04.2018, introducing Construction Continuance Certificates and Completion Certificates in areas under the Directorate of Town and Country Planning. The requirements apply prospectively to planning permissions issued from 16.04.2018, except for industrial buildings and residential buildings with up to three dwelling units.
What the order governs
The Housing and Urban Development [UD4(3)] Department framework applies to buildings within the jurisdiction of the Directorate of Town and Country Planning. It introduces inspections at the plinth stage and after completion, with the aim of checking construction against the approved plan.
The framework covers all building categories except:
- Industrial buildings.
- Residential buildings with up to three dwelling units.
It applies prospectively to planning permissions issued from 16.04.2018.
Construction Continuance Certificate
A person who obtained planning permission, or the current property owner, must apply when construction reaches plinth level. The application goes to the Member-Secretary of the Local Planning Authority, the Regional Deputy Director, or another person delegated the relevant power.
Key requirements include:
- A plan showing the site boundary, building dimensions and setbacks on all sides.
- Authentication by the applicant and an Architect, Structural Engineer or Licensed Surveyor.
- Inspection by the competent authority or an empanelled professional.
- A date-stamped photograph taken during inspection.
- Confirmation that the plinth-level work follows the approved plan.
The Construction Continuance Certificate application must be disposed of within 15 days from receipt.
Completion Certificate
The planning permission holder, current owner, builder or developer must apply after construction is complete and no further civil works are required. The application must include a plan showing the actual construction at the site.
The competent authority or an empanelled professional will inspect the property. If the drawing accurately records construction that complies with Completion Certificate norms, it will be stamped as the plan of the building as constructed and the certificate will be issued. Compliance certificates from authorities that issued earlier no objection certificates must also be verified.
No applicant, buyer, worker or other person may occupy the building without a valid Completion Certificate. Temporary utility connections must be disconnected after construction, and regular connections may be given only after receipt of the certificate.
Fees and administration
A scrutiny fee of Rs.3 per square foot of built-up area is collected from the applicant when planning permission is issued. The order also provides payments to empanelled professionals of Rs.1 per square foot of plinth area for the plinth-level report and Rs.1.50 per square foot of built-up area for the structural completion report.
The Director of Town and Country Planning must empanel professionals, issue operational guidelines and direct Local Planning Authorities to vary their Development Control Regulations through district Gazette notification and local publication.
This summary is generated from the source document to help you find what is relevant. The PDF above is authoritative. For advice on your own property, use LandLens One or speak to a qualified professional.
Common questions
Does this requirement apply to a house with three dwelling units?
No. Residential buildings with up to three dwelling units are excluded from the Construction Continuance Certificate and Completion Certificate requirements introduced by G.O.(Ms.)No.53.
Can a buyer occupy a covered building before the Completion Certificate is issued?
No. An applicant, buyer, worker or any other person must not occupy the building without a valid Completion Certificate from the concerned authority.
When must I apply for a Construction Continuance Certificate?
The planning permission holder or current owner must apply when construction reaches plinth level. The application must be disposed of within 15 days from receipt.
Will a regular utility connection be available without a Completion Certificate?
No. Temporary connections must be disconnected after construction, and a regular utility connection will be given only after receipt of a valid Completion Certificate.
