Subdivision is the process of dividing land into two or more parcels.
Subdivision approval
Subdivision approval ensures that new lots meet zoning requirements and that infrastructure such as roads, water, and sewer services are properly designed and constructed..
Subdivision applications are reviewed by City staff and approved by the City’s Approving Officer under the Land Title Act.
Most subdivision applications do not require Council approval, although other development approvals (such as re-zoning or development permits) may be required before subdivision can proceed.
Before submitting an application, contact the Planning Division to book a pre-application meeting.
Early discussion helps confirm:
Zoning compliance
Minimum lot size requirements
Servicing upgrades
Road dedication or frontage improvements
Environmental or hazard area considerations
This is your opportunity to:
Ask questions
Review applicable zoning, policies and servicing requirements
Confirm fees and documents needed
Tip: Come prepared with a sketch of your proposal and any specific questions.
Once your plans are ready and you've gathered the required documents:
Contact Planning staff for a final pre-submission review.
You'll receive a secure link to upload your application package.
Instructions for application fees and payment will be provided.
Incomplete applications will not be accepted.
Your application will be reviewed by:
The City’s Development Application Review Team (DART) This internal team includes staff from planning, engineering, building, and public works.
External agencies such as utilities or provincial ministries, if required
You may be asked to provide additional information or revised drawings during the review.
This step ensures your proposal meets technical, legal, and servicing requirements.
If your application meets City requirements, the Approving Officer will issue a Preliminary Layout Review (PLR) letter.
The PLR outlines:
Conditions to be completed before final approval.
Required infrastructure upgrades (for example, road access, water and sewer).
Legal agreements or permits.
An estimate of Development Cost Charges (DCCs) and municipal fees.
The PLR is valid for one year, with a possible one-year extension if sufficient progress is shown.
You must satisfy all conditions identified in the Preliminary Layout Review (PLR) before the subdivision can proceed.
Depending on the project, PLR conditions may include the following.
Engineering requirements
Revised subdivision plans
Engineering drawings and servicing designs
Engineering reports or technical studies
Infrastructure works
Road construction or upgrades
Water, sanitary sewer, and storm system upgrades
Other municipal servicing requirements
Environmental protection
Environmental protection measures
Environmental reports or mitigation requirements
Legal requirements
Registration of legal documents such as easements, covenants, or rights-of-way
Dedication of road or utility corridors
City staff will confirm when all PLR conditions have been satisfied and the application can proceed to the next stage.
Before final subdivision approval, all required works and services must be completed or secured to the satisfaction of the City.
This may include infrastructure such as:
roads and sidewalks
storm drainage systems
water and sanitary sewer services
street lighting and other municipal infrastructure
All required works must be installed at the applicant’s expense before final subdivision approval, unless you enter into a Servicing Agreement with the City.
A Servicing Agreement allows works to be completed after approval and typically requires:
a cost estimate certified by a professional engineer
financial security based on the estimate plus contingency
liability insurance if work extends onto City-controlled land
The City’s Engineering division will confirm the exact works and servicing requirements for your subdivision.
Once all PLR conditions are met:
Submit a cover letter requesting final approval.
Provide the final survey plan (prepared by a B.C. Land Surveyor).
Ensure all fees are paid, including application, connection and DCCs.
Confirm all property taxes are paid in full.
Include all supporting documents listed in the PLR.
The Approving Officer will sign the final plan if everything is in order.
After approval, you (or your solicitor/surveyor) must register the subdivision plan at the Land Title Office along with any required legal documents (for example, rights-of-way and covenants).
Registration must happen within two months of approval.
Subdivision timelines vary depending on several factors, including:
Application complexity
Property-specific servicing requirements
How quickly the applicant fulfills review comments and conditions
The review timeline may also be affected by agency approvals, engineering requirements, or legal agreements that must be completed before approval.
Typical costs associated with subdivision may include:
