1. Determine Existing Zoning Status
The first step in the rezoning process is to verify the current zoning classification of the land. This can be done through:
- The local development authority or urban planning department.
- Online access to zoning maps or land use master plans.
- Reviewing official documents like the Record of Rights (RoR) or Patta/Khasra/Khata entries.
This step confirms whether the land is currently designated for agricultural, residential, commercial, or any other use.
2. Assess Eligibility for Rezoning
Before proceeding, the landowner must check if the area is eligible for industrial zoning under the applicable regional or municipal Development Plan. Eligibility is determined by factors such as:
- Proximity to industrial corridors or infrastructure.
- Access to transportation and utilities.
- Compliance with environmental buffer zones and setbacks.
- Alignment with the zoning and spatial planning objectives of the region.
Certain areas—like green belts, eco-sensitive zones, or public land—may be ineligible for rezoning.
3. Submit an Application to the Competent Authority
The landowner must file a formal Change of Land Use (CLU) or Rezoning Application to the appropriate authority. This may include:
- Urban Development Authority
- Municipal Corporation
- Town and Country Planning Department
- Revenue Department (in rural or semi-urban areas)
The application typically includes:
- Ownership documents (title deed, property tax receipt).
- Survey number and location maps.
- Existing zoning classification.
- Justification for proposed change.
- Proposed site development plan.
- NOCs from relevant departments (if applicable).
4. Review and Site Inspection by Authorities
Upon receiving the application, the authority conducts:
- A technical review of the proposed rezoning request.
- Field inspection by planning officers or engineers to assess the location’s suitability.
- Verification of infrastructure availability, road access, and environmental concerns.
Reports are submitted to higher-level planning committees or zoning boards for further evaluation.
5. Public Notification and Objection Period
In many jurisdictions, the rezoning proposal is published as a public notice to allow local stakeholders, residents, or interest groups to:
- Submit objections, if any.
- Attend public hearings or planning board meetings.
This is done to maintain transparency and prevent adverse effects on the community or environment.
6. Approval and Issuance of Rezoning Order
If the application meets all statutory requirements and no major objections arise, the competent authority grants official approval. The applicant receives:
- A Rezoning Order or Land Use Conversion Certificate.
- Updated zoning records in land registry systems.
- Conditions of approval, if any (such as usage restrictions, development timelines, or infrastructure commitments).
This legal document allows the land to be used or sold for industrial purposes.
7. Update Land Records and Development Plans
Following approval:
- The mutation entries in the revenue records are updated.
- The land is reclassified in the master plan or GIS zoning database.
- The new zoning status becomes legally binding for all future use and transactions.
The owner may then proceed with layout approval, construction permits, or sale to industrial buyers under the revised classification.
