Want To Split A Lot or Land Parcel?

June 18th, 2008 Categories: Buyer and Seller Knowledge Center

Lot splitting is simply the division of any parcel into two or more lots for the purpose of sale, lease, or financing.

It can be costly therefore talk to someone before acting. Often the starting point is the designated areas Planning Department.

The people in the Planning Department will more than likely re-direct you to someone else but do not do anything without knowing who you have to talk with, what steps need to be taken and with whom, what has to be documented and what is the cost.

Do not assume. There are differences in area requirements and these differences can be measurable and costly.

Yes, lot splits have to be approved and the authority for this approval stems from the Map Act of 1907 which was created to encourage orderly community development and to prevent fraud in real estate dealings.

General guidelines and some key questions that have to be considered, discussed and documented with the various agencies may include the following and more. But this list is a start as to what needs to be addressed.

Is the proposed split consistent with the County (City or Parish) General Plan?
Is the proposed split consistent with Zoning Code standards, such as minimum lot size?
Is the topography and other site conditions suitable for development?
Are there any geological hazards (faults lines, land slides or water hazards)? What action or steps will be taken to nullify these hazards?
Can the County (Parish) design and layout lot standards be met….are the proposed lots usable?
Can Fire Department, Public Works or essential services minimum road requirements be met?
Is sufficient quality water available? Is there enough water for Fire Department standards?
Can lots be served by a sewer system or a septic system?
Are other public services available such as storm drains, utilities, etc. that need to be viewed?
Is the project compatible with nearby existing and proposed land use?
Are there any special environmental factors (noise, archaeology, flors/fauna, air quality, water quality) that would adversely be affected?
Are there easements that may affect the proposed split?

The steps and permits needed to split a lot (or land)

Request a pre-submittal evaluation of proposal. Go over the essentials at this meeting and collect the names of people (and phone numbers) of who you talk with. Keep a log of all discussions and contacts. If in doubt, document.
Obtain and prepare application package and plan meeting(s) with the essential departments whose approval you will need.
Application review and environmental evaluation and associated fees

review to determine adequacy of the application

review for completeness or incompleteness of application

determination of environmental documentation needed

environmental preparation and review
final determination
final map or parcel map prepared, submittal and recording with County clerk, zoning and other departments.

In between do not forget that you will have to get a survey of the split lots so ask who will undertake this task.

When everything is done ask for a Lot Determination Letter for each lot from the County or Parish. This will be a very handy document to have when selling the new lots.

Your comments are welcomed.