AP Launches Final Phase of Layout Regularisation Scheme

The Andhra Pradesh government has started the final phase of the Layout Regularisation Scheme (LRS). This phase gives plot owners a last chance to legalise unauthorised and unapproved layouts before strict enforcement begins. The scheme remains open until January 23, 2026, and aims to bring all such properties under planned urban development.

The move follows G.O. Ms. No. 134, issued on July 26, 2025, which reopened the scheme and extended eligibility. Officials said the public response has been strong, with over 40,000 new applications already submitted through the online LRS portal. They expect more applications as awareness drives expand across districts.

The scheme functions under the Andhra Pradesh Regularisation of Unapproved Layouts and Plots Rules, 2020. It seeks to integrate all unapproved layouts into the state’s official planning system.

Urban Development Authorities (UDAs) and Urban Local Bodies (ULBs) must prepare In-Principle Layout Patterns (IPLPs) for layouts flagged through the Unauthorised Layout Identification and Monitoring System (ULIMS), even when owners have not applied yet.

A survey by the Directorate of Town and Country Planning (DT&CP) identified 14,535 unauthorised layouts spread over 78,452 acres. Officials said these layouts caused unplanned growth and reduced local revenue. The revised LRS simplifies procedures, moves the entire process online, and promises approvals within six months.

The scheme applies to plots registered before June 30 and features auto-calculated charges. Penalisation depends on sub-registrar land values, and a 7% open space fee applies if the layout lacks the required 10% open area.

Calling it a “major step in urban management,” Suresh Kumar, Principal Secretary of MA&UD, said the scheme will turn unapproved colonies into legally recognised, service-ready neighbourhoods.