A DNS entry for “domain.tld" already exists error, when zone file still exists.

Symptoms

When adding a domain in your cPanel, you get an error similar to the following.

There was an error when the system attempted to create the alias. (XID haj58w) A DNS entry for “domain.tld” already exists. You must remove this DNS entry from this server or all servers in the DNS cluster to proceed.

Description

This error occurs when your server already has a DNS zone for the domain. You should ensure that the DNS zone file is removed.

Workaround

1. Log into WHM as the ‘root’ user.
2. Navigate to "Home / DNS Functions / Delete a DNS Zone."
3. Select the domain to delete.
4. Click the "Delete" button.
5. Verify that the domain you want to delete is listed.
6. Click the "Delete" button.

Additional resources

Delete a DNS Zone