Subdivision Map Act and Land Development
This domain tests the California Subdivision Map Act (Government Code section 66410 et seq.) and local implementation. Expect questions on tentative, parcel, and final maps, lot line adjustments, certificates of compliance, dedications, and survey map requirements.
Core rules
- The Map Act sets statewide procedure; local ordinances set standards, fees, and conditions.
- A tentative map is approved with conditions before a parcel or final map is prepared. A vesting tentative map confers vested rights.
- A parcel map is generally required for subdivisions creating four or fewer parcels; a final map for five or more, unless an exception applies.
- A lot line adjustment under section 66412(d) moves land between existing adjacent parcels without creating more parcels. It requires local agency approval and generally does not require a parcel map.
- A certificate of compliance under section 66499.35 documents that a parcel was legally created, often for an illegal subdivision.
- Dedications and offers of dedication are shown on the map, with acceptance by the local agency.
- Survey maps require boundary closure, monumentation, and checking against the tentative map conditions.
Worked example
Two adjacent lots each 50 ft wide are adjusted so one becomes 60 ft and the other 40 ft. No new parcel is created, so this is a lot line adjustment, not a subdivision. The local agency approves the adjustment and new deeds are recorded. If the adjustment had created an additional parcel, a parcel or final map would be required.
Traps
- Treating a lot line adjustment as creating a new lot.
- Skipping a certificate of compliance for a parcel of doubtful legality.
- Omitting offers of dedication or acceptance language.
- Ignoring tentative map conditions in the final map.
- Assuming a parcel map is always required for two-lot boundary changes.