Planning to subdivide your Melbourne property? Our registered surveyors handle all aspects of subdivision surveys, from initial feasibility through to Land Use Victoria lodgement. Torrens, strata, and community title subdivisions.
Get a Free QuoteA subdivision survey is the process of dividing one parcel of land into two or more separate titles. In Victoria, this requires a registered surveyor to prepare a survey plan that defines the new lot boundaries, which is then lodged with Land Use Victoria to create new certificates of title.
Subdivision creates real value - it allows you to sell part of your property, build a second dwelling for rental income, or develop multiple lots for sale. Melbourne's strong property market makes subdivision an attractive option for landowners with suitable properties.
The subdivision process involves planning approval from City of Melbourne Council, survey work to establish the new boundaries, and registration of the survey plan to create separate titles. City Surveyors manages the entire surveying component, coordinating with council and Land Use Victoria on your behalf.
Different subdivision types suit different property situations and development goals.
The most common subdivision type in Melbourne. Torrens title creates completely separate lots, each with its own title and no shared ownership. Ideal for splitting a large block into two or more residential lots. Each new lot can be sold, developed, or retained independently. This is what most people mean when they say "subdivide my property."
Used for buildings containing multiple units or dwellings. Strata subdivision creates separate titles for each unit within a building, plus common property areas. Essential for townhouse developments, unit blocks, and duplexes where owners share common areas like driveways or gardens. Learn more about our strata subdivision services.
Combines elements of Torrens and strata subdivisions. Community title creates separate lots (like Torrens) but with shared common property managed by an owners corporation (like strata). Often used for gated communities, master-planned estates, or developments with shared amenities like pools or parks.
The subdivision process in Melbourne typically follows these steps:
We assess your property against City of Melbourne Council zoning and minimum lot size requirements. Not all properties can be subdivided - we'll tell you early if yours qualifies and what's achievable. This initial assessment is typically provided at no cost with your quote.
Council approval is required for most subdivisions. We prepare the survey plan and supporting documents for lodgement with council. This process takes 6-12 weeks depending on the complexity and any referral requirements.
Once council approval is granted, our surveyors complete the field survey to establish and mark the new boundaries. We set permanent survey marks at each new corner and prepare the final survey plan.
The survey plan is lodged with Land Use Victoria for examination and registration. This process takes 2-4 weeks. Once registered, the new lots receive separate certificates of title.
Your new lots are now separate properties with individual titles. Each can be sold, mortgaged, or developed independently. The subdivision is complete.
Subdivision survey costs in Melbourne vary significantly based on complexity. Typical ranges are:
$4,000 - $7,000
Survey fees only. Splitting one lot into two with straightforward boundaries.
$8,000 - $15,000+
Multiple lots, irregular boundaries, easements, or infrastructure requirements.
Note: These are surveyor fees only. Total subdivision costs also include council application fees ($2,000-$5,000), Land Use Victoria registration fees, and potentially infrastructure contributions or engineering works. We'll provide a complete cost breakdown in your quote.
Get a free subdivision feasibility assessment
Request AssessmentCity of Melbourne Council sets the rules for subdivision in the Melbourne area. Key requirements include:
We assess all these requirements during our initial feasibility check. Learn more about Victorian subdivision requirements at the Victorian Government website.
Survey fees for a simple 2-lot subdivision typically range from $4,000 to $7,000. Complex subdivisions with multiple lots or difficult conditions cost $8,000-$15,000 or more. Total project costs including council fees and registration are higher.
Whether you can subdivide depends on your property's zoning, size, and shape. You need to meet minimum lot size requirements (typically 300-500m² in Melbourne residential zones) and have adequate road frontage. Contact us for a free feasibility assessment.
A typical Melbourne subdivision takes 6-12 months from initial application to receiving new titles. This includes council approval (6-12 weeks), survey work (1-2 weeks), and Land Use Victoria registration (2-4 weeks).
Minimum lot sizes vary by zoning. In standard residential zones, minimums are typically 300-500m². Some higher-density zones allow smaller lots (down to 200m²). We check these requirements during feasibility assessment.
Yes. Most subdivisions require a planning permit from council. The approval process assesses your proposal against planning requirements and may include public notification. We prepare and lodge the application on your behalf.