Street Line Certificate in Sri Lanka: Why You Need It (2025)
Street Line Certificate in Sri Lanka: Why You Need It (2025)
The "Invisible Line" that eats your land.
You might buy 10 perches, but if there is a "Street Line" for future road widening, you might only be allowed to build on 7 perches. The Street Line Certificate is the document that reveals this future risk.
Table of Contents
- What is a Street Line?
- Why it Matters (Building & Loans)
- How to Obtain It
- Street Line vs Building Line
- FAQs
1. What is a Street Line?
It is a reservation line drawn by the Local Authority (Municipal/Urban Council) or RDA indicating future road expansion.
- Example: If a 20ft road is planned to become 40ft, the Street Line will cut 10ft into properties on both sides.
- Ownership: You still own the land, but you cannot build permanent structures within this line.
2. Why it Matters
- Building Approval: The Council will reject your plan if your house crosses the Street Line.
- Bank Loans: Banks require a Street Line Certificate to ensure the collateral value is safe.
- Compensation: If the government eventually takes the land, they only pay for the land, not for any illegal buildings on it.
3. How to Obtain It
- Go to: The local Municipal Council (MC) or Pradeshiya Sabha (PS).
- Documents:
- Survey Plan (Copy).
- Deed (Copy).
- Application Form.
- Fee: Rs. 500 - 1,500.
- Time: 1 - 2 weeks.
Output: A certificate stating either "No Street Line" or "Street Line affects X feet from center of road".
4. Street Line vs Building Line
- Street Line: The limit of future road expansion.
- Building Line: The setback required beyond the street line for ventilation/safety.
- Example: If Street Line is 10ft and Building Line is 20ft, you must build your wall at 10ft (boundary) but your house at 20ft.
5. FAQs
Q: Can I build a temporary shed in the Street Line? Yes, usually temporary structures (like a security hut) are tolerated, but you must remove them when asked.
Q: Does "Non-Vesting Certificate" mean the same thing? Close. A Non-Vesting Certificate confirms the land hasn't already been taken over. Street Line is about future taking.
Build safe. Check Regulatory Compliant Lands