Subdivision Map Act

Overview

The California Subdivision Map Act governs the division of land in California. Surveyors must understand its requirements to properly prepare subdivision maps and advise clients.

Learning Objectives

• Understand Subdivision Map Act requirements
• Distinguish between map types
• Know exemptions and exceptions
• Navigate the approval process

Key Concepts

Map Types

The Act defines several map categories:

• Tentative Map: Preliminary map for approval review
• Final Map: Recorded map for five or more parcels
• Parcel Map: Recorded map for four or fewer parcels
• Vesting Tentative Map: Locks in development standards

Exemptions

Common exemptions from the Subdivision Map Act:

• Lot line adjustments
• Financing or leasing purposes only
• Certain government acquisitions
• Court-ordered partitions (with restrictions)
• Agricultural preserves

Approval Process

Typical subdivision approval sequence:

1. Pre-application consultation
2. Tentative map submission
3. Agency review and conditions
4. Public hearings
5. Tentative map approval
6. Condition compliance
7. Final/Parcel map preparation
8. Map checking and approval
9. Recording

Surveyor Responsibilities

Surveyors must:

• Prepare maps meeting statutory requirements
• Ensure monuments are set as required
• Certify map accuracy
• File Corner Records

Key Terms

• Subdivision: Division of improved or unimproved land for sale or development
• Lot Line Adjustment: Modification of boundaries not creating new parcels
• Certificate of Compliance: Confirmation of legal parcel status

Practice Questions

1. When is a Final Map required versus a Parcel Map?
2. What are the surveyor's certification requirements on a subdivision map?