Building Plan Approval in Chennai: 5 Simple Steps to Apply
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Did you know thousands of homeowners in Chennai receive stop-work notices every year because they started construction without proper building approval?
Or imagine spending your hard-earned savings on your dream home in areas like Tambaram, Velachery, Medavakkam, or Anna Nagar, only to later learn that the building violates rules — and now you must pay heavy penalties or face legal issues.
That’s why securing building plan approval is not just a procedure — it is a legal shield for your investment and your peace of mind.
What You Will Learn in This Guide
- Who approves building plans in Chennai — CMDA vs GCC
- The 5 exact steps to get approval
- What documents you must submit
- Common mistakes and how to avoid them
- FAQs that every house owner should know
If you follow these steps correctly, your approval journey becomes simple and tension-free.
Let’s start with the first and most important question…
Who Approves Building Plans in Chennai? (CMDA vs GCC)
Approval authority depends on your building type and size.
CMDA — For Bigger & Special Buildings
Approved by Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority
Projects that need CMDA approval:
- High-rise buildings (above 18.30 metres)
- Apartments (G+5 and above)
- IT parks, industrial buildings
- Public-use buildings like hospitals, schools, wedding halls (kalyana mandapams)
GCC — For Home Owners & Small Shops
Most individuals building a home will deal with Greater Chennai Corporation:
Official Site : Building & Town Planning System
- Ground floor houses, G+1 or G+2
- Small commercial buildings
- Minor alterations to existing buildings
Chances are your family home falls under GCC approval.
Before Moving to Step 1…
Your plot must legally allow construction.
How do officers check this? Through the TNCDBR rules.
Keep reading — Step 1 explains this clearly.
The 5-Step Building Approval Process in Chennai
Step 1: Check the TNCDBR Rules (2029)
This rulebook decides what you can build on your land.
Key rules checked:
- Zoning
- Residential or Commercial? Example:
- Areas like Perungudi = Mixed-use (higher approval flexibility)
- FSI (Floor Space Index)
- Defines total allowed construction
Example: FSI 2.0 on 1000 sq. ft. → 2000 sq. ft. total
- Setback Requirements
- Minimum open space around building
- Plot Coverage
- Ground floor maximum occupation
A good architect will always first check these limits.
Step 2: Prepare All Required Documents
A complete file = faster approval.
Legal Documents
- Sale Deed / Title Deed
- Patta & Chitta (owner’s name must match)
- Encumbrance Certificate — 13 to 30 years
Official Site : Check Patta status online
Technical Drawings (by Architect/Engineer)
- Site plan, floor plans, elevation, section
- Structural stability certificate (for G+2 and above)
- Soil test report (for larger buildings)
Required NOCs (Situational)
- Fire & Rescue (for tall buildings, public areas)
- Airport Authority if near flight path areas like Meenambakkam
- Traffic NOC for high footfall areas (shops, office)
- Electricity (TANGEDCO) & Metrowater (CMWSSB)
Situational NOCs
- Fire safety → https://www.tnfrs.tn.gov.in/
- TANGEDCO → https://www.tangedco.org/
- CMWSSB → https://www.chennaimetrowater.tn.gov.in/
- Airport Authority → for buildings near Meenambakkam flight path
Step 3: Online Application Submission
Only a registered Architect or Licensed Surveyor can apply.
Your documents are uploaded in the Single Window Portal
Scrutiny & development fees → Paid online
Step 4: Inspection & Review
- Officials check drawings as per rules
- They visit your plot to confirm size, road width, surroundings
Step 5: Clarifications → Final Approval
Most applications get queries — this is common.
- Architect corrects & resubmits
- Approval issued digitally
- Permit copy must remain at construction site
Read also : How to Pay Property Tax in Chennai Online: Complete Step-by-Step Guide for 2025
Common Mistakes That Delay Approval
- Patta and Sale Deed name mismatch
- Planning illegal extra floors
- Building shops in purely residential streets
- Missing mandatory NOCs
A little care saves months of delay.
Final Takeaway
The process may look lengthy — but with:
✔ Correct rules
✔ Right documents
✔ Experienced architect
Approval becomes smooth, clear and fully legal.
Before You Apply for Approval…
If you are still searching for the right plot or house in Chennai:
Explore verified residential, commercial & land listings: MaadiVeedu.com
For more helpful property guides and real estate knowledge: blog.maadiveedu.com
We help every family build confidently and legally.
Frequently Asked Questions (Crisp & Clear)
1. What is building plan approval?
It is the legal permission to construct a building that follows safety and planning rules.
2. Who approves building plans in Chennai?
CMDA approves big/special buildings. GCC approves individual houses and small shops.
3. How long does approval take?
Around 30–90 working days, depending on building type and document accuracy.
4. Can I start construction without approval?
No. It leads to penalties, stop notices, or demolition.
5. Do I need permission for adding extra floors?
Yes. Any structural change requires approval.
