Chandigarh makes building plan approval fully online, introduces self-certification for architects

PTC Web Desk:  The Chandigarh Administration has fully moved the building plan approval process online in a bid to make approvals faster, easier and more transparent for property owners.

Under the new system, building plans for residential, commercial and industrial properties can now be processed through the online platform. The expanded system also allows registered architects to submit plans through self-certification, while applicants can track their applications digitally at every stage.

The online building plan approval system was first introduced in Chandigarh in April 2022. The administration has now expanded its coverage to include several additional categories of buildings.

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Architects registered with the Council of Architecture can now submit building plans online for residential, commercial and industrial plots under the new self-certification facility.

The system is expected to reduce the need for applicants to make repeated visits to government offices and help ensure that applications are processed within the prescribed timelines.

Property owners will receive updates through SMS and email as their applications move through different stages.

These updates will cover key steps such as scrutiny of the application, fee assessment, issuance of technical NOCs and final approval. Applicants will therefore be able to check the status of their plans online instead of making frequent follow-ups with officials.

The administration has also introduced an administrative dashboard for departmental officers and heads of departments concerned.

The dashboard will provide real-time information about applications pending at different levels. This will allow senior officials to monitor delays and check whether applications are being processed within the timelines prescribed under the Citizen Charter.

Deputy Commissioner Nishant Kumar Yadav said the online system has made the building plan approval process more streamlined and transparent.

He said features such as architect self-certification, digital status updates and real-time monitoring would help reduce unnecessary delays while keeping applicants informed throughout the approval process.