Subdivision is the legal process of dividing one or more parcels into multiple new parcels, governed by the California Subdivision Map Act and local ordinances. Common subdivision types include parcel maps (typically 4 parcels or fewer), tract maps (5 or more parcels), and, since 2022, SB9 urban lot splits that allow eligible single-family residential parcels in qualifying zones to be split into two. Each subdivision type has specific surveying, mapping, and processing requirements. We provide the boundary surveying, tentative and final map preparation, agency coordination, and recording support required for residential and small commercial subdivisions across LA and Ventura County jurisdictions.
• SB9 urban lot split of an eligible single-family parcel into two parcels
• Parcel map subdivision of a larger parcel into 2 to 4 new parcels
• Tract map subdivision creating 5 or more new parcels
• Commercial development requiring parcel reconfiguration
• Estate or family planning involving creation of new parcels
• Public works projects involving right-of-way creation or adjustment
• Long-term development plans requiring tentative map approval before final map filing
• Conversion of existing improvements (apartment to condominium) involving subdivision
• Boundary survey of the parcel(s) to be subdivided
• Records research, title coordination, and easement plotting
• Tentative map preparation showing the proposed subdivision design
• Agency coordination during the tentative map approval process
• Final map preparation per the approved tentative map
• Coordination with planning, public works, and recorder's office on map review
• Boundary monument setting at the new parcel corners
• Final map recording with the county recorder
• Topographic survey of the parcel for site planning and grading design
• Title company coordination for easement and lien analysis
• Engineering coordination for civil improvements (utilities, streets, drainage)
• Legal description preparation for the resulting parcels
• Construction staking after improvements are designed
• Final map closing and reciprocal easement coordination
• Property address and APN
• Subdivision type and intent (SB9, parcel map, tract map)
• Title report for the parcel(s)
• Property owner information and authorization
• Civil engineer or design team contact (when improvements are part of scope)
• Agency pre-application discussions or feedback received
• Timeline driven by development schedule or financing
• Any prior surveys, plans, or recorded subdivision references
1. Pre-application. We confirm subdivision type, agency requirements, and feasibility.
2. Boundary survey. We perform boundary survey of the parcel(s) to be subdivided.
3. Tentative map. We prepare the tentative map and coordinate the application package.
4. Tentative map approval. We respond to agency review and condition compliance during the approval process.
5. Final map. After tentative map approval, we prepare the final map per the conditions and improvements.
6. Recording. We coordinate final map review, signature, and recording with the county recorder.
• Tentative map (PDF and CAD) per the agency's submittal requirements
• Final map (PDF and recorded original) meeting county recording standards
• Boundary monumentation at the new parcel corners
• Legal descriptions of the resulting parcels
• Application packages and condition compliance documentation
• Coordination correspondence with planning, public works, and recorder's office
• Licensed California PLS (PLS 8099) overseeing all subdivision work
• Experience with SB9 urban lot splits since the law took effect in 2022
• Familiar with subdivision processes across LA City, LA County, and Ventura County jurisdictions
• Coordination experience with planning staff, public works engineers, and recorder's office
• Combined boundary + tentative + final map scope under one PLS keeps costs efficient and the project consistent
• Realistic timelines and processing expectations, subdivisions take time, and we set clear expectations upfront
SB9 (effective January 2022) allows eligible single-family residential parcels in qualifying zones to be split into two parcels through a streamlined ministerial process. Eligibility depends on zoning, lot characteristics, historic designation, and a number of other factors. Each jurisdiction implements SB9 with local ordinances. We can evaluate your specific parcel's eligibility as part of the pre-application discussion.
Timeline depends heavily on subdivision type and jurisdiction. SB9 lot splits can be processed in 3 to 6 months. Parcel maps typically take 6 to 12 months from initial submittal to recording. Tract maps take 12 to 24 months or longer depending on improvement requirements. We'll discuss realistic timelines for your specific situation.
Typically yes, each new parcel needs its own water, sewer, electrical, and other utility service connections. Existing service can sometimes be retained for one of the resulting parcels; new connections are required for the others. This is part of the civil engineering and improvement scope, not the surveying scope.
Parcel maps typically create 4 or fewer new parcels and have a simpler approval process. Tract maps create 5 or more new parcels and have more extensive review, including coordination with public works on streets, utilities, and other improvements. Tract maps generally take longer to process and cost more to prepare.
For SB9 lot splits and simple parcel maps with no public improvements, often no civil engineer is needed. For tract maps or any subdivision requiring street improvements, drainage design, or utility design, a civil engineer is typically required. We coordinate with civil engineers on projects where engineering is part of the scope.
SB9 is a California law that can allow an eligible single-family lot to be split into two parcels, subject to local standards and eligibility rules. Whether a specific property qualifies depends on zoning, lot characteristics, and the local ordinance, which we help confirm before preparing the parcel map and supporting survey.