What is the Real estate definition of Subdivision vs Lot Line Change?

Answer 1

The term "subdivision" is pretty understood; a "lot line change" is less clear. If I understand the situation, however, and there are some facts missing that would help, the main difference is where the local subdivision/zoning ordinances (laws) require a full subdivision (plat and all) in a situation where all you want to do is split off a piece of property from a larger piece.

If the larger piece would remain a "legal conforming" "lot of record" or something like that and the one you want to split off meets minimum requirements itself, then you might be able to just deed off a piece. But if the ordinances say you still have to subdivide, then you may be stuck having to subdivide anyhow.

You need to consult your local zoning and subdivision ordinances. And that may only be the beginning.....

Then again if you mean you have a piece of property that is legally described something like "lots 1 and 2 in ABC subdivision..." and there's a house on one and the other's vacant, and you want to sell off the vacant lot, then as long as each separate lot still meets the current minimum requirements for a single lot, you might just be able to deed off the vacant lot with no problem.

And then again if let's say you own "Lots 1, 2 and 3..." and they're all vacant and each one alone would meet minimums OR because of changes in zoning ordinances you need the area of let's say 1.5 lots to build on to be "conforming", you might be able to deed off "Lot 1 and the West half of Lot 2......", creating a new lot line in the middle of Lot 2. Again it may depend on local ordinances; there may still be a requirement to "re-subdivide" the 3 lots into 2 "conforming" lots.