Maharashtra: Free Regularisation for Homes Built on Up to 500 Sq Ft Land

Mumbai, March 28: In a major policy move, the Maharashtra government has decided to regularise residential encroachments of up to 500 square feet free of cost across the state, excluding Mumbai city and its suburban district. Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule announced the decision on Friday.
Key Provisions
Free Regularisation: Residential encroachments up to 500 sq ft will be regularised completely free of charge.
Maximum Limit: Encroachments on a maximum of 1,500 sq ft will be regularised per case. Any structure above that will be removed.
Charges for Extra Area: For the remaining area beyond 500 sq ft (up to 1,500 sq ft), 10 per cent of the prevailing market value will be charged as occupancy price.
Joint Ownership: Regularised land will be allotted in joint ownership in the name of husband and wife under the 'Class-2 occupant' category.
Cut-off Date: Encroachments existing till January 1, 2011, are eligible.
Coverage: Both rural and urban areas across Maharashtra, excluding Mumbai city and suburban district.
Encroachments Not Covered
The following encroachments will NOT be regularised:
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Riverbeds, drains, grazing land
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Public roads, forests
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Cremation grounds, playgrounds
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Land reserved for schools or hospitals
Such encroachments will be removed, and affected families will be considered for alternative housing under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) .
Documents Required
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Voters' lists, electricity bills, property tax receipts prior to January 1, 2011
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Proof of residence for the past one year (mandatory)
Commercial Use
If part of a house is used for commercial purposes, 25 per cent of the market value will be charged for that portion.
Implementation
Committees headed by District Collectors, Sub-Divisional Officers, and Tehsildars will implement the scheme. District-level and constituency-level committees will be formed for decision-making. A review will be conducted every three months.
Government's Statement
"No eligible family in the state should remain without shelter. By regularising encroachments till January 1, 2011, we have provided relief to the poor and needy families. This will bring stability to many families," said Revenue Minister Chandrashekhar Bawankule.