Helpful Advice for Subdividing Land

Subdividing your property can be easy, if you’re aware of the many factors involved and the processes you need to follow.

Because subdivisions are a matter of land ownership, you’ll be dealing with some complex terms and legal procedures. Having an understanding of the laws, regulations, permits and processes is key to a smooth, simple subdivision of your land or property.

We’ve put together some helpful tips to guide Queensland property owners through the subdivision process.

Do Your Research About Subdivisions in Queensland

Before you can subdivide your property, you’ll need to submit a subdivision proposal to your council. Visit your council’s website and look into the specific process, and the permits you’ll need to attach to your submission.

Being well prepared can save you a lot of time, stress and money further down the track.

Talk to Professionals About Your Subdivision Plans

You’ll benefit greatly from engaging with professionals before submitting your proposal.

Getting advice from people qualified in their fields is invaluable and they’ll be able to see any steps that you may have missed, as well as identifying any potential issues. You’ll have expert knowledge on permits, zoning laws, timelines and costs available at your fingertips.

Talk to a:

• Town planner – to identify any potential problems with your proposal
• Civil engineer – to assess any risks or constraints with infrastructure
• Surveyor – to establish your exact land boundaries
• Solicitor – to apply for your new land titles for each separate lot

Be Aware of Planning Constraints

Did you know that planning constraints exist that can determine that your land cannot be subdivided? You’ll need to be aware of these potential planning constraints before you even begin work on your subdivision proposal, or you’re simply wasting your time.

The main factors involved in planning constraints are:

• Lot sizes – your lot (land) must adhere to council-regulated sizing, meaning it can’t be smaller than specified by council
• Zoning – this outlines the type of development that can take place on your land, as set out by the council
• Overlays – includes factors to consider such as valuable resources, heritage or environmental features to protect, or planning considerations such as with areas prone to flooding, for example
• Neighbourhood plans – legal council documents outlining development in your area; if your property is included in a neighbourhood plan that will need to be considered in your subdivision proposal

Adhere to Engineering Constraints

As well as planning constraints, you need to be aware of possible engineering constraints, which may prevent your subdivision from going ahead.

A professional engineering survey is a necessary component to any subdivision proposal to make sure that the planned subdivision doesn’t affect any existing infrastructure – such as sewerage, water mains, and stormwater drains.

If your proposal affects infrastructure on your neighbour’s property/properties, you’ll need their written consent as well. If your neighbours do not provide their consent the council cannot approve your proposal, so make sure you’ve considered this carefully.  

Seek Advice from a Team of Property Development Professionals

Working with a property development consultant is the fastest way to engage with a town planner, engineer and surveyor all at once, making your subdivision proposal a very simple and smooth process. Contact Arnold Development Consultants (ADC), for more helpful advice on subdividing your land. With over 50 years of experience in subdivisions, ADC can guide you through the process from start to finish, ensuring you’re using your land in the best way possible.