I own several acres of undeveloped land on which Id like to build some houses. How do I divide the land into different parcels so I can sell the houses once theyre built?
To divide your land into parcels, generally you must meet requirements of both state law and local ordinances for subdivisions. You submit an application to the appropriate city or county land use authority, which is sent for comment to state and local agencies who have jurisdiction (e.g., public works, utilities, fisheries agencies, transportation agencies, etc.). Usually, you have an opportunity to work with the staff of the local government to resolve any issues that may come up. Typically, the staff recommends that the application be approved subject to a number of conditions. After public notice and a hearing, the planning commission or hearing examiner recommends that the application be approved with conditions or disapproved. The final decision is left to the local governments legislative authority (e.g., city council, county commissioners, etc.). • The county recently passed a critical areas ordinance that will prevent me from building on about 25 percent of my land because it
