Subdivision Mapping, Parcel Design, and Boundary Resolution
The mapping framework
The Subdivision Map Act and local ordinances govern tentative maps, vesting maps, parcel maps, and final maps, including certificates, dedications, offers of dedication, findings, time limits, and extensions. A lot line adjustment rearranges land between existing legal parcels and does not create new lots; it must still be approved and documented. Condominium plans define airspace units over land that remains undivided.
Design and resolution
Design checks lot area, width, frontage, setbacks, access, street widths, easements, drainage, slope, and flood hazards against zoning. Boundary resolution gathers evidence, applies the weight hierarchy, computes positions, and then confronts any discrepancy between the record line and possession. The surveyor reports the conflict; the surveyor does not silently relocate a line to fit improvements or a client's expectation.
Traps in questions
Assuming an approved but unrecorded map creates lots; forgetting tentative map expiration; showing monuments that were not set or found; ignoring zoning conformance or a street dedication; treating a lot line adjustment as a subdivision.
Rule of thumb
Every map should state its survey basis, show all found and set monuments, and match the field evidence to the record. If the final map cannot be certified truthfully, the boundary resolution is not finished.