Land conversion in Karnataka, explained

Most rural land in Coorg is recorded as agricultural. Using it for a house, homestay, resort or shop generally needs a conversion to non-agricultural use.

Who approves it

Conversion is handled through the Deputy Commissioner's office under the Karnataka Land Revenue Act. The use you apply for must match the local zoning and planning rules.

What a converted plot should have

• A conversion order that names the survey number and the permitted use
• An RTC that reflects the change
• For a layout, an approved layout plan from the planning authority

Buying land that is not yet converted

Some buyers purchase agricultural land and apply for conversion afterwards. This can take time and is not guaranteed. Ask an advocate whether the land is eligible before you agree a price that assumes it will be converted.

Coorg-specific checks

Parts of Kodagu lie close to reserve forests and ecologically sensitive areas in the Western Ghats, where building may be restricted. Kodagu also has older land tenures, such as jamma and bane land, whose history can be complex. Have both looked at before you buy.

Rules change from time to time, so confirm the current process with the taluk office or a local advocate.