The state government of Tamil Nadu is continuing its efforts to simplify and speed up the building plan approval process across the state. As part of these reforms, the government is considering further reducing the approval time frame to 21 days, from the current limits. Officials have indicated that steps are being taken to implement this 21-day approval timeline at the earliest. To achieve this goal, the online approval system is being upgraded so that applications can be processed and disposed of within the shortened time frame. The primary objectives behind this move are ensuring timely disposal of applications and improving transparency in the approval process. Under the existing rules, planning authorities are required to process building plan approval applications within 30 days. Recently, orders were issued to urban local bodies across Tamil Nadu directing them to issue building plan approvals within 27 days. These urban local bodies are empowered to approve building plans for smaller constructions, including buildings up to ground-plus-two floors and stilt-plus-three floors, with a maximum of eight dwelling units. Permissions for larger and more complex structures are handled by higher planning authorities. In another significant reform, the government has simplified the building plan approval process for high-rise buildings within the metropolitan region by delegating approval powers to a single authority. This step is expected to reduce delays caused by multiple levels of scrutiny and overlapping jurisdictions. Additionally, the government has strengthened the self-certification mechanism for construction approvals. A self-certification online portal has recently become operational, following the completion of system integration. This portal is designed to benefit micro, small, and medium enterprises, allowing them to obtain approvals more easily for buildings with a built-up area of up to 5,000 square feet on land parcels measuring up to 7,500 square feet. Earlier government orders had already extended the self-certification scheme to small industries, and a similar self-certification system for small residential buildings constructed on plots of up to 2,500 square feet has been in use for some time. Industry representatives have welcomed these measures, stating that simpler, faster, and hassle-free approval processes will significantly boost confidence among builders and investors. They believe these reforms will encourage growth in both the industrial and construction sectors, reduce project delays, and improve overall ease of doing business in Tamil Nadu.