Service

Subdivision Planning

Torrens, strata and community title subdivision, from lot size checks to the DA and subdivision certificate.

Subdivision in NSW is governed by the LEP minimum lot size map and the subdivision clauses, then by DCP controls for lot shape, frontage, access and services. A block that looks large enough on paper can fail on frontage, battle-axe access, a sewer main or a stormwater discharge point.

URBA prepares subdivision DAs for two-lot splits, dual occupancy subdivisions, battle-axe lots and small greenfield subdivisions, working with surveyors and civil engineers on the plan, the servicing and the section 88B instrument.

Who this is for

Owners splitting a large block
Duplex owners subdividing into two titles
Small greenfield subdividers in growth areas
Strata subdivision of approved dual occupancies and townhouses

What the report or service includes

Lot size, frontage and permissibility check against the LEP
Advice on Torrens versus strata versus community title
Statement of Environmental Effects for the subdivision DA
Coordination of survey plan, civil and stormwater design, bushfire and flood inputs
Advice on section 7.11 and 7.12 contributions and conditions
Support through the subdivision works certificate and subdivision certificate stages

How it works

Step

Lot check

Can the block be split, and into what?

Step

Plan of subdivision

We brief the surveyor and review the draft plan against the controls.

Step

DA

SEE and supporting documents lodged on the Planning Portal.

Step

Certificates

Support through works and subdivision certificate conditions.

Frequently asked questions

Can I subdivide my block in Sydney?

It depends on the LEP minimum lot size for your zone, whether the resulting lots meet the frontage and shape controls, and whether services and access can be provided. A due diligence check answers this quickly.

What is a battle-axe lot?

A lot with a narrow access handle to the street and the main body of the lot behind another property. Most councils set a minimum handle width and exclude the handle when calculating the lot area.

Can I subdivide first and build later?

Yes for Torrens title subdivision of vacant land where the LEP allows it. For dual occupancies most councils require the dwellings to be approved, and often built, before the titles are separated.

Where we provide this service

Across Sydney, Western Sydney, the Central Coast, the Hunter, the Illawarra and regional NSW. See the areas we service for council-specific notes, including Blacktown, Penrith, The Hills, Liverpool, Camden and the Central Coast.

Services that often go with this one

Reading

Guides related to subdivision

15 Sep 2026