Building Permit Process and Timeline for Developers in Maharashtra

Getting a building permit is the first legal step in turning a real estate vision into reality. For developers, understanding the approval process, documentation, and expected timelines is crucial for project success.

In this blog, we’ll explore how to navigate the building permit process under Unified Development Control and Promotion Regulations (UDCPR) in Maharashtra.

🧾 What is a Building Permit?

A building permit is an official approval from the planning authority to begin construction. It certifies that your building plan complies with local development control regulations like FSI, setbacks, land use, and infrastructure.

📋 Steps in the Building Permit Process

1. Land Ownership Verification

• Get the 7/12 extract and property card updated.

• Check title, encumbrances, and land-use zoning from the Development Plan (DP).

2. Appointment of Licensed Architect/Engineer

• Only registered professionals can prepare plans and submit proposals.

• Ensure your architect understands the latest UDCPR rules.

3. Preparation of Site Layout and Building Plan

• Must include:

  • Plot boundaries and access roads

  • FSI utilization

  • Setbacks and open spaces

  • Amenity spaces, parking, etc.

4. Submission of Online/Offline Proposal

• Submit via AutoDCR or equivalent platform depending on your local body (e.g., PMC, NMC, CIDCO).

• Attach all required documents and drawings in PDF/DWG format.

5. Scrutiny by Planning Department

• The town planning officer checks:

  • Plot size vs. permissible FSI

  • Building height and coverage

  • Road width, fire safety, and infrastructure adequacy

6. Payment of Scrutiny & Development Charges

• Based on FSI consumed and land use.

• May include premiums for additional FSI (TDR, fungible, etc.).

7. Site Inspection (if required)

• Some authorities do physical site verification before sanction.

8. Final Approval and Issue of Commencement Certificate (CC)

• Once approved, a Commencement Certificate is issued.

• Now you can legally start excavation and construction.

📂 List of Commonly Required Documents

• 7/12 Extract and Property Card

• Architect's Appointment Letter

• Site Layout & Building Plans

• NA Order (if applicable)

• Zone Certificate

• DP Remarks

• Environmental Clearance (for larger projects)

• Fire NOC, Airport NOC (if required)

• Structural Stability Certificate

⏳ Approximate Timeline

Stage Timeframe Document Collection & Design 2–3 weeks Submission & Scrutiny 2–4 weeks Fee Payment & Site Visit 1 week Final Approval (CC) 1–2 weeks Total Timeline 4–8 weeks

Note: Timelines vary based on local authority workload and project complexity.

🔍 Key Tips for Developers

• Always cross-check zoning and DP reservations before planning.

• Use licensed professionals for better credibility.

• Avoid missing documents—it delays approval.

• Plan your finance based on the permit timeline, not assumptions.

⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting incomplete architectural drawings

• Ignoring land title issues or encroachments

• Not updating old NA or mutation entries

• Assuming one-time NOC is enough (some are stage-wise)

📣 Final Thoughts

A building permit isn’t just paperwork—it’s your legal license to build. Delays in the process can affect funding, sales, and delivery. So, prepare early, hire the right professionals, and follow each step diligently.

With the UDCPR, the approval process is more standardized across Maharashtra, but you still need to navigate it smartly.