Understanding Section 80 of the UP Revenue Code, 2006 (Land Conversion)
Published on July 18, 2026
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Written by Legal Experts
## What is Section 80 of the UP Revenue Code?
Previously governed by Section 143 of the UP Zamindari Abolition and Land Reforms Act, the process of converting agricultural land into non-agricultural land (commercial, residential, or industrial) is now governed by **Section 80 of the Uttar Pradesh Revenue Code, 2006**.
For any landowner (*Bhumidhar*) looking to build a house, start a business, or set up a factory on their farm land, obtaining a Section 80 declaration is a mandatory legal step. Without it, constructing on agricultural land is illegal and can lead to demolition by local authorities.
### Why is Land Conversion Required?
Under UP state laws, agricultural land enjoys lower tax rates and is protected for farming. If you change its utility, you must officially notify the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) to update the land records (Khatauni) so that commercial property taxes can be applied.
### Key Steps to Apply for Section 80
1. **Application Submission:** You must file an application to the SDM of your Tehsil. This can now often be done online via the state's official revenue portal.
2. **Lekhpal Report:** The local Lekhpal (revenue officer) will inspect the land to verify its current status and ensure no illegal construction has already taken place.
3. **Fee Payment:** A conversion fee (typically 1% to 2% of the circle rate) must be paid.
4. **Final Declaration:** Once satisfied, the SDM will issue a formal declaration, and the land's status in the *Khatauni* will change from agricultural to non-agricultural.
> **Legal Tip:** If you are buying a plot for residential purposes in UP, always ask the seller for the Section 80 declaration order. If the land is still registered as agricultural, you will not get building plan approvals from the development authority!
Need help with land conversion? [Find an expert property lawyer on CallVakeel](/lawyers) today.
Previously governed by Section 143 of the UP Zamindari Abolition and Land Reforms Act, the process of converting agricultural land into non-agricultural land (commercial, residential, or industrial) is now governed by **Section 80 of the Uttar Pradesh Revenue Code, 2006**.
For any landowner (*Bhumidhar*) looking to build a house, start a business, or set up a factory on their farm land, obtaining a Section 80 declaration is a mandatory legal step. Without it, constructing on agricultural land is illegal and can lead to demolition by local authorities.
### Why is Land Conversion Required?
Under UP state laws, agricultural land enjoys lower tax rates and is protected for farming. If you change its utility, you must officially notify the Sub-Divisional Magistrate (SDM) to update the land records (Khatauni) so that commercial property taxes can be applied.
### Key Steps to Apply for Section 80
1. **Application Submission:** You must file an application to the SDM of your Tehsil. This can now often be done online via the state's official revenue portal.
2. **Lekhpal Report:** The local Lekhpal (revenue officer) will inspect the land to verify its current status and ensure no illegal construction has already taken place.
3. **Fee Payment:** A conversion fee (typically 1% to 2% of the circle rate) must be paid.
4. **Final Declaration:** Once satisfied, the SDM will issue a formal declaration, and the land's status in the *Khatauni* will change from agricultural to non-agricultural.
> **Legal Tip:** If you are buying a plot for residential purposes in UP, always ask the seller for the Section 80 declaration order. If the land is still registered as agricultural, you will not get building plan approvals from the development authority!
Need help with land conversion? [Find an expert property lawyer on CallVakeel](/lawyers) today.
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