The subdivision of land is the creation of smaller lots out of a larger piece of land for the purpose of developing each smaller lot.
Any developer wishing to create more than three lots in Burlington must do so by a registered plan of subdivision. This policy has been incorporated into the Official Plan: Part VI, Implementation, Section 4.4b).
Subdivision applications are processed under Section 51 of the Planning Act. Subdivision approval ensures that:
- The land is suitable for its proposed new use
- The proposal conforms to the Official Plan as well as Provincial and Regional planning policies
- The development can be appropriately serviced and accessed.
Registered Plan of Subdivision
A registered plan of subdivision is a legal document that shows:
- The exact surveyed boundaries and dimensions of lots on which buildings are to be constructed
- The location, width and names of streets
- Sites of any schools or parks.
A plan of subdivision must be surveyed by an Ontario land surveyor, approved by the municipality and registered in the local land registry system. A registered plan of subdivision creates new parcels of land which can be legally used for the sale of lots.
Subdivision Application Process
1) Preconsultation Meeting
The City of Burlington requires that a preconsultation with city and agency staff (e.g. Halton Region) occurs prior to the submission of a development application.
- Submit a Preconsultation Request Form [PDF] and a development concept plan to city staff.
- A preconsultation meeting is scheduled with staff from the City of Burlington, Halton Region, and (if required) Conservation Halton to discuss the development proposal.
- Applicant will be advised of planning applications required and whether background studies will be needed.
- A Preconsultation Agreement outlining the requirements for a complete application will be signed by applicant and staff at the meeting.
Contact the Planning and Building department at 905-335-7642 or by email at city@burlington.ca to submit your request for a preconsultation meeting.
2) Application
- Submit a complete application (PDF) to Burlington's Planning division, including the 2020 Development Application Fees (PDF) and background studies.
- Post a sign on the property describing the proposed development.
- Application will be given to agencies and city departments for comments.
- Planning will make a recommendation that City Council approves, modifies, or refuses the application.
3) Neighbourhood Notification
- Notices will be sent to properties located within 120 m of the subject property (300 m in the rural area).
- Neighbours are invited to send written comments by mail, fax or email.
- A neighbourhood meeting may be held to review the planning process and the development proposal.
Read more about the planning process and how to get involved.
The Planning Act allows 180 days (six months) to process a subdivision application. If Council does not make a decision within this timeframe, the applicant may appeal to the Ontario Municipal Board.