Most new colonies, townships and commercial projects in Rajasthan are built on land that was once agricultural. Before such land can legally be used for houses, shops or factories, its use must be changed through the conversion process under Section 90-A of the Rajasthan Land Revenue Act, 1956, and the related rules. For buyers, this is one of the first things to check.
What conversion does
Agricultural land is recorded in the revenue records (jamabandi) as farm land. Conversion surrenders it from agricultural use and allows the approved non-agricultural use, such as residential, commercial, institutional or industrial. After conversion, the land can be planned, sub-divided as per an approved layout and built on with permission.
Who decides
Depending on where the land is, the application goes to the urban development authority (such as JDA in Jaipur), the urban improvement trust, the local body or the revenue authorities. The use allowed must match the master plan or zonal plan for the area.
Typical steps (for owners and developers)
- Confirm the land use in the master plan and check the title and revenue records.
- Apply with title documents, jamabandi copy, site plan and the proposed use.
- Pay the conversion charges as set for the area and the use. Rates differ by city and purpose.
- Receive the conversion order, then get the layout or building plan approved.
What buyers should check
- The conversion order for the full land parcel, matching the khasra numbers of your plot.
- That the use converted (for example residential) matches what you are buying.
- That the layout of the colony was approved after conversion.
- That no part of the land falls in a road, green belt or water body area of the master plan.
Tip:A plot sold as residential on land still recorded as agricultural is a major red flag. You may not get a patta, building approval or a loan.
Farmhouses and agricultural land
Buying agricultural land to farm is different from buying a converted plot. In Rajasthan, there are restrictions on who can buy agricultural land (including rules on certain categories of land), and NRIs cannot buy agricultural land in India at all under FEMA rules. Read our agricultural land guide for more.
How ATTPL Realty helps
For land and plots we mark as verified, our team checks the conversion, title and approvals with legal partners. If you own land and want to convert or sell it, talk to an advisor about the process and the likely value.
Frequently asked questions
What is 90-A conversion?
It is the process under Section 90-A of the Rajasthan Land Revenue Act that permits agricultural land to be used for non-agricultural purposes such as housing or commerce.
Can I build a house on agricultural land in Rajasthan?
For a regular residential house or colony, the land normally needs conversion and an approved plan first. Rules for farmhouses differ by area.
How do I check if a plot's land is converted?
Ask for the conversion order and match its khasra numbers and permitted use with your plot and the approved layout.
This article is general information, written in November 2026, and is not legal, tax or financial advice. Rules, rates and limits change; please confirm the current position with the authority concerned or a qualified professional before you act.
