Generally.
Unless otherwise stated herein, the provisions of this Chapter apply to any division of a surface area of land into two or more parcels for sale, lease or other conveyance or for building development. Most such divisions are deemed “subdivisions” subject to the applicable subdivision provisions of this Chapter. However, certain lesser divisions of land, referred to as “exempt land divisions,” are exempt from subdivision requirements but remain subject to zoning requirements and review and approval as provided in
§ 5.4: LAND DIVISIONS, SUBDIVISION EXEMPTIONS AND OTHER PLAT REVIEWS.
Development Order Required.
The owner of any tract of land who desires to divide the land shall obtain a development order approving the division as a major or minor subdivision or an exempt land division prior to recording a plat making the division.
Unapproved Division Prohibited.
No person shall divide or subdivide any tract, parcel or lot of land without making and recording a final plat and complying fully with the requirements of the SLDC. No land within the jurisdiction of the County may be divided through the use of any legal description other than with reference to a final plat approved in accordance with the SLDC.
No person shall sell, lease or transfer ownership of any tract, parcel or lot of land by reference to a plat or subdivision map before a final plat has been duly recorded with the County Clerk.
The County Clerk shall not file or record any final plat or deed that divides or subdivides land until it has been approved in a development order in accordance with this Chapter. The County Clerk shall not file or record any condominium declaration absent certification of the Administrator that the provisions of this Chapter have been met.
Boundary Surveys, Utility or Access Easements.
Nothing in this Chapter regulates the recording of a boundary survey, so long as the survey does not purport to divide or subdivide property. Creation of a utility or access easement on a boundary survey is not regulated by this Chapter except to the extent that the creation of such utility or access easement is intended to divide or subdivide property, in which case a development order shall be required.
Commencement and Completion of Development.
Commencement of construction or work shall begin within one (1) year of the date of the issuance of the development permit. Construction or work set forth in the development permit shall be completed within two (2) years of the issuance of the development permit unless an extension of time has been obtained from the Administrator.
