Subdividing land is also known as reconfiguring a lot.
Types of subdivision
The subdivision process can involve:
- creating new lots by subdividing another lot (for example: splitting one lot into two lots)
- merging two or more lots into one lot, also known as amalgamation
- rearranging the boundaries of one or more lots without creating any additional lots (for example: two into two lots)
- creating a community title scheme
- creating a volumetric subdivision to use the space above or below the land
- dividing land into parts by agreement, such as by leasing part of a lot for more than 10 years
- creating an easement to give access to an existing lot from a road.
Planning approval
Proposals for subdivision are considered based on land constraints, and the zoning and overlays that apply to the site. Different zones and overlays have different requirements for new lots being created. Levels of assessment also vary between zones and overlays.
A town planning consultant can advise you whether a property can be subdivided and what constraints may apply.
Subdivision process
Before a new lot can be sold, it must be created and its title registered.
Here are the steps in the process:
- Lodge a development application to Council for reconfiguring a lot. If you receive planning approval, you may also need to lodge an operational works application. You can lodge both of these applications through Council's online lodgement service.
- Undertake the works required by your planning and operational works approvals, and pay the associated infrastructure charges. Your infrastructure charges will be detailed in your planning approval.
- Submit the plan of subdivision to Council for plan of subdivision approval [PDF, 0.6MB]. Further information on requesting approval of your plan and Council's assessment process can be found on our Plan of Subdivision webpage.
- Submit the approved survey plan for registration with the Queensland Government Titles Office. Upon registration, the title is issued under the Land Title Act 1994. You can find further information on the State Government titles and valuation processes on the Department of Natural Resources, Mines and Energy website.
Costs
Application fees
You need to pay a development application fee when you lodge your application with Council. See the full list of application fees.
Infrastructure charges
Council levies infrastructure charges as part of the development approval process. This applies to each new lot you create. Find more information on infrastructure charges.
This revenue helps Council provide essential trunk infrastructure for new developments, including roads and transport, sewerage, water supply, stormwater and community facilities.
Additional costs
Subdivision costs for a 1-into-2-lots subdivision can vary greatly, as each site requires different levels of infrastructure.
Some lots may require minimum investment in infrastructure, such as new sewer and water connections on existing mains, and electricity and telephone services.
Others may require more substantial upgrades, such as footpaths, water and sewer main extensions, and underground electricity connections.
Each subdivision needs its own financial analysis and feasibility, as costs can exceed the average range.
You should get advice from a town planning consultant before lodging a development application to help you consider the full range of costs.