Subdivision is the process of dividing land into smaller parcels. The Subdivision Authority, the group that decides on subdivision applications, is comprised of three Council-appointed staff members from Planning and Development who review technical matters, including conformity with plans, implementation requirements and associated servicing agreements.

Subdivision developers are often responsible for a number of infrastructure and other elements. These include various environmental, planning and surveying tools to prepare the area for servicing and area plans; grading; building utility services (sewer, water gas, electricity, etc.); surface improvements (roads, sidewalks, lighting, etc.); providing appropriate space for recreational and schools facilities.

Subdivision decisions may be appealed to the Subdivision and Development Appeal Board by the applicant, municipality, school boards or the provincial government.

When there is no approved community or area plan, adjacent property owners are notified of applications and invited to comment, but do not have the right to appeal subdivision decisions. Community leagues are not notified on subdivision applications. Legislation also permits appeals of subdivision to the Municipal Government Board on matters of provincial concern or inter-municipal dispute.²⁰