Also called: NA order, NA permission, Land use conversion, DC conversion (Karnataka), CLU (change of land use)
Permission to use agricultural land for non-agricultural purposes such as housing or industry. Without it, building homes on farmland is not permitted.
How it works and what to check
Each state has its own law and procedure. In Karnataka the deputy commissioner orders conversion (hence 'DC conversion'); in Haryana and Punjab a change of land use (CLU) is granted; in Maharashtra an NA order from the collector was the norm.
Several states have simplified the process. Maharashtra, for example, has moved to treating building plan approval as deemed NA permission where the development plan already allows the use, with a one-time premium in place of annual NA tax. Rules keep changing, so check the current position for the specific land.
Ask for the conversion order, check that it covers the whole survey number or the part being sold, and that the land record shows the converted use.
Common questions
Can I build a house on agricultural land?
Generally only after the land is converted to non-agricultural use or the planning rules permit the use. Some states allow a farmhouse within limits; check locally.
Is NA permission still needed in Maharashtra?
Maharashtra has amended its land revenue code so that, where the development or regional plan permits the use, building approval is treated as deemed NA permission. Check the current notification for your area.