Overview
While zoning regulates how land may be used, subdivision regulations govern how land may be divided. Together, these two regulatory tools form the foundation of local land use planning and development.
In Utah, a subdivision is broadly defined as the division or proposed division of land into two or more lots or other divisions of land for the purpose of sale, lease, or development. This definition applies regardless of whether the division occurs by plat, deed, metes and bounds description, recorded instrument, or another legal method. Subdivisions may be created for residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, or other lawful land uses. (See §10-20-102 and §17-79-102 of Utah State Code (as amended).)
Subdivision regulations serve several important public purposes. They help ensure that newly created lots have adequate access, utilities, drainage, and other public infrastructure; that streets and public improvements are constructed to adopted standards; and that development occurs in an orderly manner consistent with a community’s general plan and zoning ordinance.
To accomplish these objectives, the State Legislature has granted municipalities and counties authority under §10-20/§17-79 of Utah State Code (as amended) to adopt subdivision ordinances governing the review, approval, and recording of subdivision plats. These statutory provisions also establish statewide requirements related to matters such as:
- Subdivision application and approval procedures;
- Public notice requirements;
- Improvement completion assurances (performance guarantees);
- Plat recording requirements; and
- Other procedural and administrative requirements applicable to subdivision development.
Understanding the subdivision process is essential for planners, planning commissioners, and elected officials because virtually every new development begins with subdivision. A well-crafted subdivision ordinance not only facilitates growth but also protects the public health, safety, and welfare while ensuring that new development is served by adequate public infrastructure.
Content Contributors: Jones and DeMille Engineering, Inc, Hansen Planning Group, LLC / Rural Community Consultants
Special Note: This material was developed by civiclinQ for the Land Use Academy of Utah (LUAU). Funding for the development of this material was provided by through the Land Use Training Fund, which is administered by the Office of the Property Rights Ombudsman , utilizing a portion of the 1% surcharge on all building permits in the State of Utah.
The role of this organization in administering funding is primarily administrative and should not be viewed as legal advice. Always consult your legal representative when addressing land use activities.
Use the ‘Materials’ tab above to view related course materials, including printable pass-along card and PDF version of this online course.
