The Bhu-Kanoon is the key legislation governing land ownership in Uttarakhand, especially for outsiders. The 2025 amendment has made the rules clearer and stricter than ever, particularly regarding residential and agricultural land purchases.
This guide breaks down the law, explains its practical impact, and provides official resources for verification.
📜 What is Bhu-Kanoon?
Bhu-Kanoon (Land Law) regulates who can buy land, how much, and where in Uttarakhand. Its primary goals are:
- Protecting local residents and traditions
- Conserving fragile mountain ecosystems
- Ensuring orderly land use and development
The 2025 amendment introduced major changes, affecting both residential and agricultural land purchases.
🏡 Key Highlights of the 2025 Amendment
| Aspect | Rule / Restriction |
|---|---|
| Residential Land | Outsiders can buy up to 250 m², one-time purchase only |
| Agricultural / Horticultural Land | Prohibited for outsiders in 11 districts (except Haridwar & Udham Singh Nagar) |
| DM Approval | Removed – no discretionary power for larger plots |
| Affidavit Requirement | Mandatory declaration of land purpose |
| Violation Consequence | Land can be repossessed by the government |
💡 Note: This is the strictest version of Uttarakhand land law since state formation.
👥 Who is Considered an “Outsider”?
Anyone not registered as a permanent resident of Uttarakhand (no state domicile certificate). Here you can find the all applicable land laws for non-residents of the State.
✅ Practical Implications for Land Buyers
- Only one residential plot allowed for outsiders.
- Cannot bypass limits by purchasing in family or friend names.
- Agricultural land purchases are largely off-limits in protected districts.
- Legal and affidavit compliance is mandatory — violations can lead to land repossession.
🔗 Related Resources for Buyers
- Land Laws for Outsiders in Uttarakhand – a practical guide for buyers
- Property Verification Guide – ensure your land is legal and verified
Official Government Portals:
🛡️ How Kumaon Planner Helps You
At Kumaon Planner, we guide buyers through legal and regulatory complexities:
- Verify land ownership and classification
- Ensure compliance with Bhu-Kanoon 2025 rules
- Assist with affidavits, registration, and documentation
- Provide expert advice on residential and commercial property purchases
This ensures that your investment is secure, legal, and hassle-free.
📌 Conclusion
The Bhu-Kanoon 2025 amendment provides clear guidelines for land ownership in Uttarakhand. Understanding these rules is crucial before investing, especially for outsiders.
By following the law and leveraging Kumaon Planner’s services, buyers can confidently navigate the Uttarakhand property landscape — making their investment safe, compliant, and future-proof.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1. Can an outsider buy multiple plots to bypass the 250 m² limit?
No, the law explicitly allows only one-time residential purchase.
Q2. Can agricultural land be inherited by outsiders?
Yes, inheritance is allowed, but selling or converting it is restricted as per Bhu-Kanoon 2025.
Q3. Is DM approval still needed for large purchases?
No, discretionary power of the District Magistrate has been removed.
Q4. What happens if the affidavit declaration is false?
The government can take back the land and impose fines or legal action.
