SUBDIVISION DEFINITIONS
There are some differences and some similarities between the concept “subdivision” under the Subdivided
Lands Law and the Subdivision Map Act. The common part of the definition for “subdivision” is “division of
improved or unimproved land for the purpose of sale or lease or financing whether immediate or future.”
The main differences or similarities are:
Subdivided Lands Law
5 or more lots, units, or parcels................
improved standard residential subdivisions within
city limits exempted..................
a “proposed division” is included................
no contiguity requirement........................
160 acre and larger parcels designated as such by
government survey are excepted...................
community apartments included....................
condominiums included............................
stock co-operatives included.....................
leasing of apartments, offices, stores or similar space
in apartment building, industrial building or
commercial building excepted.....................
long term leasing of spaces in mobilehome parks or
trailer parks generally included.................
undivided interests may be included..............
expressly zoned industrial or commercial
subdivisions are exempt..........................
agricultural leases included.....................
limited-equity housing cooperatives, with some
exemptions, per Section 11003.4 of the Code .....
Subdivision Map Act
2 or more lots, units, or parcels
included
“proposed division” not included
land must be contiguous units
no exception for 160 acre and larger parcels
same
same
not included unless 5 or more existing dwelling units
converted
same
leasing or financing of mobilehome parks or trailer
parks not included
not included
included
not included
not included