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CMDA approval timeline — realistic day-by-day

How long will your CMDA approval really take? Here's the day-by-day schedule for a clean file (30–45 days) and what happens if objections come.

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Quick answer

CMDA approval in Chennai 2026 takes 30–45 days for clean files and 45–75 days if objections arise. Day-by-day: site visit + drawings (days 1–14), document compilation (15–18), online filing + fees (18–20), site verification (20–35), sanctioned plan (35–45). Each objection cycle adds 15–30 days. Pre-checked files (Homeli's standard) clear most often in 30–40 days.

Clean file timeline — day-by-day

DayActivity
Day 1Site visit + jurisdiction confirmation
Days 2–14Drawings preparation (architectural + structural)
Days 14–18Document compilation (patta, EC, tax, NOCs)
Days 18–20Online filing + fee payment
Days 20–35Site verification by CMDA officer
Days 35–45Sanctioned plan issued

What makes files fast vs slow

Fast files (30–35 days):

Slow files (45–75+ days):

Pre-checked files clear fast. Homeli's 47-point internal checklist runs before any file goes to portal — most of our files clear first-shot in 30–40 days.

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Frequently asked

How long does CMDA approval take in Chennai?
For clean files, CMDA approval takes 30–45 days in Chennai 2026. Day-by-day: site visit and drawings (days 1–14), document compilation (days 14–18), online filing and fees (days 18–20), site verification (days 20–35), sanctioned plan (days 35–45). Files with objections add 15–30 days per cycle. Pre-checked files most often clear in 30–40 days.
Can I speed up CMDA approval?
There's no official fast-track, but you can avoid delays by: ensuring all documents are ready and within validity (EC within 30 days, current tax receipt), having drawings pre-checked against setback and FSI rules, filing a complete set the first time (not adding documents later), and being available when site verification is scheduled. Homeli's pre-filing checklist eliminates the most common delay causes.
What if my CMDA approval is delayed beyond 45 days?
First check the CMDA OSR portal for any pending action — sometimes an objection has been raised that needs your response. If no action is pending and the file is just stuck in scrutiny, escalate via the portal's helpdesk or visit the CMDA office in person. Homeli proactively tracks all our filed applications and escalates if stuck.
Can construction start before CMDA approval?
No. Starting construction before approval risks: sealing by CMDA officers (adds 4–6 months), demolition orders, denial of EB/water/sewerage connections, bank loan disbursement blocks. CMDA conducts field inspections in active building zones. Wait for the sanctioned plan; in parallel finalise your contractor and material vendors so construction starts the day after approval.
How long is the CMDA sanctioned plan valid?
CMDA sanctioned plans are typically valid for 3 years from issue date. If construction doesn't start within that period, the plan needs renewal (separate fee). If construction starts but doesn't complete within 5 years, an extension can be applied for. Most projects complete well within these windows.
Does CMDA approval timeline differ by zone?
Slightly. Files in higher-density zones (central Chennai, mixed-use areas) sometimes attract more scrutiny and longer site verification. Plots near airport funnel zones (Pallavaram, Nanganallur) may need additional AAI NOC which adds 30–60 days. Coastal plots within CRZ need CRZ NOC adding 60–90 days. Standard residential zones in inner Chennai typically clear in 30–40 days.

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