Change of Land Use (CLU) Certificate in India 2025: Meaning, Application Process, Fees & Legal Guidelines

Understand the 2025 CLU certificate process in India—learn how to apply, legal importance, applicable fees, and how CLU affects land use and real estate development.

7/22/20253 min read

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Change of Land Use (CLU) Certificate in India 2025: Meaning, Application Process, Fees & Legal Guidelines

Understand the 2025 CLU certificate process in India—learn how to apply, legal importance, applicable fees, and how CLU affects land use and real estate development.

A CLU certificate, or Change of Land Use certificate, is an official approval from the competent urban planning or town development authority that permits the conversion of agricultural land into non-agricultural land—typically for residential, commercial, industrial, or institutional use. This process ensures that any land development or construction project aligns with the master plan or zonal development plan of the respective state.

In simple terms, you cannot use farmland for building a house, shop, factory, or office without obtaining CLU permission from the relevant authority.

What is CLU (Change of Land Use) Certificate?

Why is a CLU Certificate Important?

  • Ensures legal land usage as per the state’s development plan

  • Mandatory for real estate development, housing projects, or commercial constructions

  • Helps avoid legal complications and future demolition notices

  • Enables utility approvals like electricity, water, and sewage for non-agricultural purposes

  • Critical for loan approvals from banks and NBFCs on such converted lands

CLU approvals are issued by the District Town Planner (DTP) or Directorate of Town and Country Planning (DTCP) or similar urban development authority, depending on the location of the property and the rules of the respective state government. In some states, municipal corporations or municipal councils also have the authority to issue CLU permissions.

Who Issues the CLU Certificate?

Documents Required for CLU Certificate Application

Here are the essential documents needed when applying for CLU in 2025:

  • Ownership documents of the land (title deed or sale deed)

  • Land sketch/site plan showing exact measurements

  • Copy of the Jamabandi or Record of Rights

  • Khasra and Khatauni details from revenue records

  • Encumbrance certificate

  • No Objection Certificates (NOCs) from relevant departments (environment, fire, etc.)

  • Zoning certificate from local planning authority

  • ID proof of the landowner

Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a CLU Certificate in India (2025)

  1. Check Land Zoning Status
    Verify if your land falls under a restricted or permitted zone for intended non-agricultural use.

  2. Submit Application Online or Offline
    Visit the official portal of the concerned planning authority or visit the office in person.

  3. Upload/Attach Required Documents
    All documents mentioned above must be uploaded (in case of online application) or attached (offline).

  4. Pay Applicable Fees
    Pay the CLU application charges, including conversion fees, scrutiny fees, and other statutory dues.

  5. Inspection & Verification
    Field officers may inspect the land for suitability and compliance.

  6. Grant of CLU Permission
    If all conditions are met and documents are in order, the CLU certificate will be granted.

CLU Charges and Fees

The CLU fees in India vary from state to state and depend on several factors like:

  • Size of the land

  • Location (urban, semi-urban, rural)

  • Type of proposed use (residential, commercial, etc.)

Here’s a broad range for 2025:

👉 Note: These charges are subject to change by respective state governments. Always check the latest fee structure before applying.

State-wise Rules & CLU Authorities

Always refer to the respective state’s official urban development portal for latest rules and online application procedures.

Yes. While both terms are often used interchangeably, they serve different purposes:

  • Land Conversion: Typically refers to the process of converting agricultural to non-agricultural use (NA land), especially in states like Maharashtra or Karnataka.

  • CLU Certificate: A zoning approval that permits specific change in land usage under urban planning laws.

In most cases, both processes are complementary and must be done together before starting construction or selling land for development.

CLU vs Land Conversion – Are They Different?

Why CLU Certificate is Crucial for Legal Land Use and Property Development

Acquiring a Change of Land Use certificate in 2025 is an essential step for any landowner planning to use agricultural land for commercial, residential, or industrial purposes. Failing to obtain this certificate can lead to legal consequences and halted construction activities. Stay updated with your state’s CLU norms and always seek professional help for hassle-free approvals.

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