Subdivision and Strata Title

Subdivision

Subdivision is the division of land into two or more parcels. It can also include a plan to consolidate two or more parcels into a single site, the adjustment of an existing property line, the dedication of land for road or lane purposes, and volumetric subdivisions to create air space parcels.

Vancouver City Council approves the by-laws that regulate subdivision of land in Vancouver. The Subdivision By-law regulates the width, area and configuration of the proposed parcels. This is to ensure that subsequent development can occur compatibly with that of surrounding parcels. The Subdivision By-law also sets standards for services required for a parcel of land, including the layout, design of streets and lanes, water supply, sanitary and storm sewerage systems and other utility services.

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Strata Title

Strata title property is a different form of ownership from free hold title ownership. In 1966, Provincial Government enacted the Condominium Act. It allowed buildings to be “subdivided” into strata lots, thereby allowing for a more affordable method of home ownership than single family dwellings. Generally, in buildings that are strata titled, a property owner owns his or her unit and a share of the common areas of the site. Residential, commercial, industrial and other types of buildings can be “subdivided” by way of a strata plan.

Today, regulations governing strata title property and the creation of strata lots are contained in the Strata Property Act. City Council is the approving authority only for conversion of previously occupied buildings into strata lots. Council has delegated its authority to the Approving Officer for applications for conversion to strata title of residential buildings with less than six units and for buildings which have never contained residential accommodation. The Approving Officer also approves phased and bare land strata applications.

The City does not keep strata plans on file. All strata plans are deposited at the Land Title Office in New Westminster. Information regarding strata ownership as well as information regarding disputes between strata owners is available from the Provincial office of the Superintendent of Real Estate or their website, where copies of the Strata Property Act can be viewed or downloaded.

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