Land-Related Government Offices in Sri Lanka: A Complete Guide for Buyers and Sellers

1. Department of Land Commissioner General (DLCG)

Role:

The DLCG oversees land administration, including state land allocation, title registration, and land use planning.

Key Services:

• Title Verification: Confirm ownership and check for encumbrances.

• State Land Allocation: Apply for state land leases or grants.

• Land Use Planning: Obtain zoning and development approvals.

Contact:

• Address: 99/1, Jayanthipura, Battaramulla.

• Phone: 011 286 9111

• Website: www.landmin.gov.lk

2. Land Registry Department

Role:

The Land Registry Department maintains records of land ownership and transactions, ensuring transparency and legal validity.

Key Services:

• Deed Registration: Register new deeds or transfers.

• Title Searches: Access ownership history and legal status.

• Certified Copies: Obtain certified copies of deeds and plans.

Contact:

• Address: 99/1, Jayanthipura, Battaramulla.

• Phone: 011 286 9111

• Website: www.landregistry.gov.lk

3. Urban Development Authority (UDA)

Role:

The UDA regulates urban planning and development, ensuring compliance with zoning laws and building codes.

Key Services:

• Zoning Approvals: Verify land use categories (residential, commercial, industrial).

• Development Permits: Obtain permits for construction or renovations.

• Land Acquisition: Facilitate government land acquisitions for public projects.

Contact:

• Address: No. 99, Sri Jayawardenepura Mawatha, Rajagiriya.

• Phone: 011 288 8888

• Website: www.uda.gov.lk

4. Survey Department of Sri Lanka

Role:

The Survey Department conducts land surveys, prepares maps, and maintains geospatial data.

Key Services:

• Land Surveys: Conduct boundary surveys and prepare survey plans.

• Cadastral Maps: Access detailed maps for land identification.

• Land Partitioning: Assist in dividing land among co-owners.

Contact:

• Address: 95, Kirula Road, Colombo 05.

• Phone: 011 236 8620

• Website: www.survey.gov.lk

5. Divisional Secretariats (DS Offices)

Role:

Divisional Secretariats handle local land administration, including state land allocations and dispute resolution.

Key Services:

• State Land Grants: Apply for state land allocations.

• Land Dispute Resolution: Mediate local land disputes.

• Certificates: Issue land-related certificates (e.g., land ownership, tax clearance).

Contact:

• Locations: Nationwide (find your local DS office via www.gov.lk).

6. National Physical Planning Department (NPPD)

Role:

The NPPD oversees national physical planning, ensuring sustainable land use and development.

Key Services:

• Development Plans: Access national and regional development plans.

• Environmental Clearances: Obtain approvals for eco-sensitive projects.

• Land Use Policies: Stay updated on land use regulations.

Contact:

• Address: No. 31, Vauxhall Street, Colombo 02.

• Phone: 011 239 4444

• Website: www.nppd.gov.lk

7. Mahaweli Authority of Sri Lanka

Role:

The Mahaweli Authority manages land and water resources in the Mahaweli Development Zone.

Key Services:

• Land Allocations: Apply for agricultural or residential land.

• Irrigation Support: Access water resources for farming.

• Resettlement Programs: Participate in government resettlement schemes.

Contact:

• Address: Mahaweli Centre, 96, Ananda Coomaraswamy Mawatha, Colombo 07.

• Phone: 011 269 5111

• Website: www.mahaweli.gov.lk

8. Land Reform Commission (LRC)

Role:

The LRC manages land redistribution and reform, focusing on agricultural and underutilized land.

Key Services:

• Land Redistribution: Apply for agricultural land under reform schemes.

• Lease Agreements: Obtain leases for state-owned land.

• Dispute Resolution: Resolve disputes related to redistributed land.

Contact:

• Address: No. 99, Jayanthipura, Battaramulla.

• Phone: 011 286 9111

• Website: www.lrc.gov.lk

9. Local Government Authorities (Municipal Councils, Urban Councils, Pradeshiya Sabhas)

Role:

Local authorities oversee land use and development within their jurisdictions.

Key Services:

• Building Permits: Obtain approvals for construction.

• Land Tax Payments: Pay annual land taxes.

• Zoning Information: Verify land use categories.

Contact:

• Locations: Nationwide (find your local authority via www.gov.lk).

10. How These Offices Can Help You

For Buyers:

• Verify ownership and legal status.

• Obtain zoning and development approvals.

• Access state land allocations or resettlement schemes.

For Sellers:

• Register deeds and update ownership records.

• Resolve disputes or encumbrances.

• Obtain tax clearance certificates.

For Investors:

• Access land use policies and development plans.

• Secure permits for large-scale projects.

• Participate in government land redistribution programs.

11. Tips for Working with Government Offices

1. Prepare Documents: Bring all required documents (NIC, deeds, tax receipts).

2. Be Patient: Government processes can take time, so plan ahead.

3. Seek Legal Advice: Consult a lawyer for complex transactions or disputes.

4. Follow Up: Regularly check the status of your applications.

12. FAQs: Land-Related Government Offices in Sri Lanka

Q1: How do I verify land ownership?

• Visit the Land Registry Department or use their online portal.

Q2: Can foreigners buy land in Sri Lanka?

• Yes, but only through leasehold agreements (up to 99 years).

Q3: How do I resolve a land dispute?

• Contact your local Divisional Secretariat or seek legal assistance.

Q4: What is the role of the Survey Department?

• They conduct land surveys, prepare maps, and assist with land partitioning.

Q5: How do I apply for state land?

• Submit an application to the Department of Land Commissioner General or your local Divisional Secretariat.

Conclusion

Understanding the roles of land-related government offices in Sri Lanka is essential for smooth land transactions. Whether you’re buying, selling, or resolving disputes, these offices provide the expertise and services you need.

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