Subdivision is the act of dividing real property for resale to multiple owners.
The traditional residential subdivision consisted of a large piece of vacant land which was subdivided into individual lots to construct homes for resale to individual owners. Although this still happens, today's subdivision is just as likely to be a new high-rise condominium tower or the conversion of an existing apartment building to condominium units. Legally define property for sale and protect the public and prospective buyers from fraud. The first step in processing a subdivision is the preparation, review and approval of a Tentative Tract Map. A Tentative Map shows the precise boundaries of the site and the location of proposed buildings.