Land conversion in Karnataka: agricultural to non agricultural

When conversion is needed

• To build a house that is not a farmhouse, a layout of sites, or a shop, factory or resort on agricultural land.
• Farming, and farm structures permitted by law, do not need conversion.
• Sites in a layout should come from converted land with an approved layout plan.

How it works now

• Applications are made online to the Deputy Commissioner's office with the RTC, survey sketch and land documents.
• Under the 2025 rules, land that falls in a matching zone of an approved master plan does not need to wait for the DC's prior permission; the conversion fee is still paid.
• Outside such zones the DC examines the application within time limits set by law, after which approval can be treated as given.
• The signed conversion order issues after the conversion fee is paid.

What a buyer should check

1. Ask for the conversion order and check that its survey numbers and extent match the land or layout.
2. Check that the RTC or the local body record now shows non-agricultural use.
3. For a layout, check the layout approval as well: conversion alone does not approve plots.

Questions people ask

What is DC conversion?

The order from the Deputy Commissioner allowing agricultural land to be used for a non-agricultural purpose, under Section 95 of the Karnataka Land Revenue Act.

Is a site on unconverted land safe to buy?

It carries risk: building permission, A khata and bank loans usually need converted land with an approved layout. Take legal advice.

How long does conversion take?

It depends on the district and the zone. Land in a matching master plan zone moves fastest after the 2025 rules.

Related guides

• How to check if a layout is approved in Karnataka
• Can anyone buy agricultural land in Karnataka?
• A khata, B khata and e-Khata in Karnataka