What to Know When Developing Your Lot Into a Subdivision

Written by Posted On Wednesday, 25 September 2019 14:12

Neighborhood subdivision
The first and most important thing to know before you develop your lot into a subdivision is whether your municipal zoning board will approve it. Zoning laws vary from municipality to municipality.

The full definition of zoning should be clearly understood before undertaking a subdivision

Zoning is defined as municipal land divided into specified zones such as commercial, residential and industrial. Each municipality where these lots are located are zoned according to lot sizes, density and where buildings will be located to meet municipal land regulations before they are approved or denied subdivision.

Where to Find Your Municipality’s Zoning Regulations

Most municipalities have a zoning board that determine on a case by case basis whether or not building, construction and land use are compliant with local zoning regulations. It is important to note that in some municipalities, the local zoning board may consult with the municipal engineering department regarding lot subdivisions.

There are issues such as regulating density, setbacks. Setbacks are to be located at minimum distances from building, homes, offices and other structures in proximity to the municipal right of way at street level, as well as from nearby waterways, beaches and with the recent high incidences of flooding, also flood plains. All of these are municipally and environmentally protected sites.

How to Begin Structuring Development of a Subdivision

The first steps to beginning the development of a subdivided lot is to take the time to study the local municipal land maps found in the engineering department or zoning administration office.

This will provide an idea of the types of issues that may arise before the zoning board will grant approval. For example, the size, shape and proximity to utility lines, flood zones and nearby properties.

The Purpose for Subdividing Your Lot

Another important issue is to learn the type of zone your lot is located in. For example, if the lot is to be subdivided for residential housing, the zoning board will review the proximity to other homes. If the lot is to be subdivided for commercial or industrial purposes this may present more complex issues for the zoning board to consider.

For instance, a lot subdivision that might cause encroachments to other lots in proximity would be carefully reviewed by the zoning board.

In some municipalities, zoning laws regulate subdivision of lots used in a way that duplicates existing businesses such as one that is involved in used heavy construction equipment for sale that would compete with a similar business within close proximity.

The basic things to know are the purpose for the subdivision, land use after subdivision and if the local municipality will approve it after all research has been completed by the lot owner.

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Kara Masterson

Kara Masterson is a freelance writer from West Jordan, Utah. She graduated from the University of Utah and enjoys writing and spending time with her dog, Max. Kara is the youngest of four. She has two hilarious brothers and one beautiful sister. She also is the aunt of 4 crazy little girls that she loves more than anything!! Kara is not yet able to be a mom, but she loves being around kids and being like a second mom to her nieces. She dreams of the day that she can start her own little family.

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