Subdivision FAQs

Subdivision is the process of dividing one parcel of land into two or more parcels to create separate legal titles.

Subdivision can affect neighbourhood character, infrastructure, servicing, and surrounding properties—even for small projects.

The property owner or an authorized agent can apply.

Start by contacting the Town to arrange a pre-application meeting. You should bring:

• Legal description of the property
• A draft concept or tentative plan

Town staff will review your proposal and discuss servicing, access, and requirements.

Start by contacting the Town to arrange a pre-application meeting. You should bring:

• Legal description of the property
• A draft concept or tentative plan

Town staff will review your proposal and discuss servicing, access, and requirements.

A complete application typically includes:

• Completed application form
• Application fee
• Current Certificate of Title (within 30 days)
• Tentative Plan of Subdivision
• Lot statistics table
• Letter of authorization (if applicable)
• Supporting documents as required

A tentative plan is a drawing (typically prepared by a surveyor) showing:

• Proposed lot layout
• Property boundaries
• Roads, easements, and utilities
• Environmental features

Your application is:

• Circulated to Town departments and external agencies
• Reviewed for compliance with bylaws and policies
• Evaluated based on feedback and technical considerations

Town Administration then prepares a report and recommendation to Council.

Key considerations include:

• Municipal Development Plan and Area Structure Plans
• Land Use Bylaw compliance
• Servicing and infrastructure
• Environmental and access impacts

Town Council acts as the Subdivision Authority and makes the final decision.

Costs vary depending on the complexity of the proposal. Contact the Town for current fees and estimates.

A decision is typically made within 60 days of receiving a complete application, unless an extension is agreed to.

Reserves are lands set aside during subdivision for public purposes, including:

• Municipal reserve (parks)
• School reserve
• Environmental reserve

Up to 10% of land may be required.

Reserves may be:

• Dedicated as land
• Deferred to another parcel
• Paid as cash-in-lieu

Conditions ensure the subdivision meets Town standards. These may include:

• Servicing requirements
• Infrastructure construction
• Agreements and levies
• Tax payments

Yes, refusal or conditions of approval may be appealed by:

• The applicant
• School boards or government agencies

Adjacent landowners cannot appeal.

Appeals must be filed within 14 days of the decision.

Appeals are heard by:

• Subdivision and Development Appeal Board (SDAB), or
• Municipal Government Board (MGB)

Approval is valid for one year. During this time, you must meet all conditions and prepare final documents.

Endorsement is when the Town confirms all conditions are met and signs the final legal plan.

Registration is the final step where the legal plan is registered at Land Titles and new titles are created.

Adjacent landowners are notified and invited to provide comments during the review process.