In a decisive step to preserve public access and uphold planned urban connectivity, the Tamil Nadu Real Estate Regulatory Authority (TNRERA) has issued a circular dated May 7, 2025, prohibiting developers from erecting gates or compound walls that block public roads in private housing layouts. This regulation is especially relevant in projects where internal roads have been gifted to local bodies, as such roads are intended for public use.
No More Gated Encroachments on Public Roads
TNRERA’s latest directive is part of a broader initiative to prevent obstruction of public infrastructure in the name of private development. The circular bars scrutiny officials from clearing registration applications where such gated barriers exist. According to the order, if a promoter constructs a gate or compound wall that blocks access to internal roads, they must remove the obstruction and provide photographic evidence of the removal.
“Gates at the entrance that restrict access to public roads within a layout are strictly prohibited,” stated a TNRERA official.
Grid of Roads Initiative and Urban Planning
Officials point out that some developers wall off entire layouts claiming to enhance security. However, this practice blocks interconnectivity to adjacent developments, obstructing urban mobility and future planning initiatives.
Such closures directly contradict the Chennai Metropolitan Development Authority’s (CMDA) “grid of roads” policy, which is a key component of the state’s long-term urban planning strategy. The directive also applies to layouts approved by the Directorate of Town and Country Planning (DTCP) and CMDA, indicating the widespread nature of the problem.
“This defeats the entire purpose of a connected grid of roads and hampers urban expansion,” added the official.
Project Approvals Now Linked to Compliance
To ensure accountability, TNRERA Chairperson Shiv Das Meena has instructed scrutiny officials to verify adherence to this directive during project registration. Only those layouts that maintain open access to public roads will be forwarded for registration approval.
This regulation is a proactive step to protect residents’ right to unhindered access, promote inclusive development, and prevent illegal privatization of public assets.
- Applies to: All housing layouts submitted for project registration with TNRERA
- Prohibited: Gates or compound walls restricting access to internal public roads
- Action Required: Removal of existing barriers and submission of photographic proof
- Non-compliance: Will result in denial of project registration
Impact on Developers and Urban Bodies
The directive is expected to have a significant impact on private developers who commonly secure layouts with walls and gates. Urban development authorities such as CMDA and DTCP will also need to enforce the circular while approving layout plans.
Furthermore, this move reinforces the role of TNRERA as a watchdog authority ensuring that developers do not overstep legal norms and public interest.
Conclusion
By clamping down on unauthorized enclosures and blocking of public roads in housing layouts, TNRERA is prioritizing transparent, accessible, and equitable development. This bold step is expected to curb misuse of land approvals, support integrated urban planning, and uphold residents’ rights to shared infrastructure.
