JSI Tip 8868. When you use Ntdsutil on Windows Server 2003 to remove metadata for a domain controller that was removed, you receive 'DsRemoveDsDomainW error 0x2015'?

The subject error message is:

DsRemoveDsDomainW error 0x2015 (The directory service can perform the requested operation only on a leaf object.)

This behavior may occur when the application partition naming context (DC=DomainDnsZones) for a child domain is not removed when the domain controller demoted.

To fix this problem:

1. Start / Run / ntdsutil / OK.

2. Type domain management at the Ntdsutil command prompt and press Enter.

3. Type connections and press Enter.

4. Type connect to server and press Enter.

5. Type list at the domain management prompt and press Enter.

6. Type DC=domaindnszones,DC=,DC=

7. Quit Ntdsutil.

NOTE: See How do I remove a domain controller from Active Directory after an unsuccessful demotion?