Can I Subdivide my Land? Our Guide to the Subdivision Process
If you are interested in subdividing your land but unsure if it’s possible, you’re not alone. For many land owners in NZ cities like Wellington, Upper Hutt and Lower Hutt, and towns like Levin and those along the Kapiti Coast, the idea of subdividing is appealing, but the undertaking is so daunting that many people never pursue their land development dreams.
At Tararua Surveyors, our team of planners and surveyors are here to help you understand what’s what when it comes to land subdivisions.
First Things First: What Exactly are Subdivisions?
A subdivision broadly refers to splitting a single piece of land into multiple pieces. It can be a simple freehold subdivision requiring only a land surveyor and a lawyer, or a complicated subdivision of a commercial lot, involving a team of professionals from engineers to planners, contractors to architects and even, in some cases, archaeologists.
It’s my Land…Can’t I Subdivide it if I Want to?
Even though you own the land, you have to adhere to the rules in your region and many requirements need to be met for a subdivision to be granted. These include minimum land size requirements; ability to provide services and safe access to the site; appropriate car parking; and topographical constraints.
You also must comply with the Council’s District Plan – whether you are in Wellington, Levin or the Kapiti Coast will affect the land subdivision requirements.
What’s Involved in the Land Subdivision Process?
An Idea – it all starts with an idea – usually the landowner’s – about what can be done to the land.
Assessment – next up, you need to decide whether or not to go ahead with the subdivision. Get a surveyor to help you determine if the project is possible and get an estimate of costs, timeframes and other relevant considerations.
Resource Consents – a planner or surveyor will help you apply to your Local or Regional Council for resource consents before the subdivision process can begin.
Construction – once your consent is granted, a land surveyor will project manage the construction process on your land. This could involve earthworks, services, stormwater systems, water and power supply, internet connections and so on.
Cadastral Land Surveying – a legal survey is done to map out the new property boundaries.
Council Certification – you’ll receive Council’s seal of approval under the Resource Management Act.
Legal Work – lawyers and surveyors ensure each newly developed section has a legal title.
What Will it Cost?
The cost of your specific land subdivision depends on its complexity. You’ll have to pay any involved professional’s fee; costs associated with water and sewerage, power and storm water; and the LINZ (Land Information New Zealand) certificate of title fees. Talk to one of our subdivision specialists for to get an idea of your specific costs.
Get In Touch
Interested in subdividing land in Wellington, Levin or the Kapiti Coast? The process is far less daunting with experienced land surveyors on your side. Let’s assess your land and get the ball rolling – call Tararua Surveyors today.