Planning to subdivide your Canberra property? Our registered surveyors handle all aspects of subdivision surveys, from initial feasibility through to ACT Land Titles lodgement. Torrens, unit title, and community title subdivisions.
Get a Free QuoteA subdivision survey is the process of dividing one parcel of land into two or more separate titles. In the ACT, this requires a registered surveyor to prepare a survey plan that defines the new lot boundaries, which is then lodged with Access Canberra Land Titles to create new certificates of title.
Subdivision creates real value - it allows you to sell part of your property, build a second dwelling for rental income, or develop multiple lots for sale. Canberra's strong property market makes subdivision an attractive option for landowners with suitable properties.
The subdivision process involves planning approval from the ACT Government, survey work to establish the new boundaries, and registration of the survey plan to create separate titles. City Surveyors Canberra manages the entire surveying component, coordinating with the ACT Planning Authority and Land Titles on your behalf.
Different subdivision types suit different property situations and development goals.
The most common subdivision type in Canberra. Torrens title creates completely separate lots, each with its own title and no shared ownership. Ideal for splitting a large block into two or more residential lots. Each new lot can be sold, developed, or retained independently. This is what most people mean when they say "subdivide my property."
Used for buildings containing multiple units or dwellings. Unit title subdivision (called strata in other states) creates separate titles for each unit within a building, plus common property areas. Essential for townhouse developments, unit blocks, and duplexes where owners share common areas. Learn more about our unit title subdivision services.
Combines elements of Torrens and unit title subdivisions. Community title creates separate lots (like Torrens) but with shared common property managed by an owners corporation (like unit titles). Often used for gated communities, master-planned estates, or developments with shared amenities like pools or parks.
The subdivision process in Canberra typically follows these steps:
We assess your property against ACT Government zoning and minimum lot size requirements. Not all properties can be subdivided - we'll tell you early if yours qualifies and what's achievable. This initial assessment is typically provided at no cost with your quote.
ACT Planning Authority approval is required for most subdivisions. We prepare the survey plan and supporting documents for lodgement with the ACT Planning Authority. This process takes 6-12 weeks depending on the complexity and any referral requirements.
Once approval is granted, our surveyors complete the field survey to establish and mark the new boundaries. We set permanent survey marks at each new corner and prepare the final survey plan.
The survey plan is lodged with ACT Land Titles for examination and registration. This process takes 2-4 weeks. Once registered, the new lots receive separate certificates of title.
Your new lots are now separate properties with individual titles. Each can be sold, mortgaged, or developed independently. The subdivision is complete.
Subdivision survey costs in Canberra vary significantly based on complexity. Typical ranges are:
$4,000 - $7,000
Survey fees only. Splitting one lot into two with straightforward boundaries.
$8,000 - $15,000+
Multiple lots, irregular boundaries, easements, or infrastructure requirements.
Note: These are surveyor fees only. Total subdivision costs also include ACT Planning application fees ($2,000-$5,000), Land Titles registration fees, and potentially infrastructure contributions or engineering works. We'll provide a complete cost breakdown in your quote.
Get a free subdivision feasibility assessment
Request AssessmentThe ACT Government sets the rules for subdivision in Canberra. Key requirements include:
We assess all these requirements during our initial feasibility check. Learn more about ACT subdivision requirements at the ACT Planning website.
Survey fees for a simple 2-lot subdivision typically range from $4,000 to $7,000. Complex subdivisions with multiple lots or difficult conditions cost $8,000-$15,000 or more. Total project costs including government fees and registration are higher.
Whether you can subdivide depends on your property's zoning, size, and shape. You need to meet minimum lot size requirements (typically 500-700m2 in Canberra residential zones) and have adequate road frontage. Contact us for a free feasibility assessment.
A typical Canberra subdivision takes 6-12 months from initial application to receiving new titles. This includes ACT Planning approval (6-12 weeks), survey work (1-2 weeks), and Land Titles registration (2-4 weeks).
Minimum lot sizes vary by zoning. In standard residential zones, minimums are typically 500-700m2. Some higher-density zones allow smaller lots (down to 250m2 for compact housing). We check these requirements during feasibility assessment.
Yes. Most subdivisions require a development application to the ACT Planning Authority. The approval process assesses your proposal against the Territory Plan and may include public notification. We prepare and lodge the application on your behalf.