Subdivisions

What Is a Subdivision?

A subdivision involves dividing a parcel of land into two or more lots and may include the development of new public streets or private access roads. In the area served by the Chaleur Regional Service Commission (Chaleur RSC), subdivision projects are classified into two categories: Type 1 and Type 2 subdivisions.

Type 1: Any subdivision that does not meet the criteria of a Type 2 subdivision.

Type 2: A subdivision that requires:

• the creation of a street, or
• an access other than a street, approved by the Regional Planning and Advisory Committee (RPAC) as suitable for the development of the land.

Common examples include creating one or two lots from an existing parcel, transferring a piece of land to a neighbouring lot, or developing a residential area with multiple lots and roads or a cul-de-sac.

Minimum Lot Dimensions

(These may vary depending on applicable zoning regulations.)

Lot with a private well or septic system

• Width: 54 metres
• Depth: 38 metres
• Area: 4,000 square feet

Lot connected to the public sewer system

• Width: 23 metres
• Depth: 30 metres
• Area: 692 m²

Lot connected to both public water and sewer systems

• Width: 18 metres
• Depth: 30 metres
• Area: 540 m²

Steps to Subdivide Land

In New Brunswick, the subdivision process is governed by the Community Planning Act, the Provincial Subdivision Regulation (80-159) (for unincorporated areas), and municipal subdivision by-laws. All applications must be approved by a development officer from the Chaleur RSC and, in some cases, reviewed by the RPAC for revision or adjustment.

1. First Step: Meet with a Development Officer

Before starting any project, book a meeting with a development officer from the Chaleur RSC. This person can:

• guide you through the steps to follow;
• ensure your project complies with applicable regulations;
• inform you of any policies that could affect approval;
• answer your questions.

This initial consultation is essential to avoid costly errors and ensure the project runs smoothly.

2. Compliance Review

The development officer will verify that your project complies with:

• the Community Planning Act,
• applicable local regulations (rural plans, subdivision by-laws),
• and any relevant provincial legislation or regulations.

This process ensures that:

• the land is suitable for its intended use,
• future subdivision of the land or surrounding properties is not compromised,
• access to the lots is adequate, and
• the development supports orderly and well-planned community growth.

Submitting a Tentative Subdivision Plan

Following your meeting with the development officer, you must hire a New Brunswick licensed land surveyor to prepare the tentative subdivision plan.

This plan is required for any application and must be submitted by the registered landowner or an authorized representative (e.g., lawyer, surveyor).

Depending on the nature of the project, the plan may be forwarded to other agencies, such as:

• Environment and Local Government,
• Public Health,
• Public Safety,
• NB Power, NB Tel, etc.

These bodies may provide technical comments if needed. Once the review is complete, a letter approving or denying the tentative plan will be sent to the applicant and the surveyor.