| Document Type |
Requirement |
| Survey Plan |
Certified by a licensed surveyor; must show all boundaries and existing structures. |
| Title Deed |
Proof of ownership (or a Power of Attorney if you are acting for the owner). |
| Rates Receipt |
Proof that your local council taxes (Assessment Rates) are paid up to date. |
| Architectural Plans |
Detailed floor plans, elevations, and sections (at least 3–7 copies depending on the council). |
| Structural Designs |
For houses over 2 storeys, these must be certified by a Chartered Structural Engineer. |
3. Mandatory External Clearances for 2025
Depending on your land’s location and the scale of your villa, the local council will require "No Objection" letters from various government bodies.
A. NBRO (National Building Research Organisation)
If your land is located in a hilly area (like Kandy or Ratnapura) or has a steep slope, you must obtain a Geo-technical Clearance. In 2025, this process is strictly enforced to prevent landslide risks.
B. CCD (Coast Conservation Department)
Building a beach villa in Matara, Galle, or Negombo? If your land is within 300 meters of the high-tide line, you need CCD approval.
C. Utilities (CEB & Water Board)
You need clearances to ensure your proposed building doesn't interfere with high-tension power lines or underground water mains.
4. The 2025 Digital Submission Process (UDA OSU)
The UDA has introduced the Online Service Unit (OSU). Most urban areas (including Colombo, Malambe, and Kaduwela) now prefer online applications through the UDA Portal.
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Registration: Create an account with your NIC/Passport and contact details.
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Fee Calculation: Use the online calculator to estimate your processing fees (based on square footage).
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Upload: Submit scanned copies of all plans, deeds, and clearances.
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Tracking: You will receive a reference number to track your file's progress through the Planning Committee.
5. From Approval to Construction
Once your plans are approved, you will receive a Development Permit.
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Important: You must display a board at the site showing your permit number and the name of the qualified person (Architect/Engineer) in charge.
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Inspections: At various stages (foundation, slab, etc.), a Technical Officer (TO) from the council may visit to ensure you are building exactly as per the approved plan.
6. The Final Hurdle: Certificate of Conformity (CoC)
The most common mistake homeowners make is skipping the CoC.
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Why you need it: Without a CoC, you cannot get permanent electricity/water connections or use the property as collateral for a bank loan.
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The Check: Once the house is finished, the council inspects it. If you deviated from the plan (e.g., added an extra room or violated a setback), you may be fined or forced to rectify the structure.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: How long does the approval process take? A: With the new online system, it typically takes 30 to 60 days, provided all external clearances (like NBRO) are ready.
Q: Can I build a boundary wall without approval? A: No. Boundary walls (parapet walls) require a separate permit from your local council, especially if they border a public road.
Q: What is the "Building Line" rule? A: In most residential areas, you must keep a minimum distance (usually 3–5 feet) from your boundary wall to allow for light, ventilation, and fire safety.
Why Choose Thash DC for Your Next Project?
At Thash DC, we don't just design beautiful modern villas; we navigate the complex Sri Lankan legal system for you. From securing UDA clearances to obtaining your final CoC, our team ensures your investment is 100% compliant.
Ready to start? Talk to our experts today for a hassle-free building experience in Sri Lanka.
