What's the difference between Block Subdivision and Unit Title Subdivision?

A block subdivision involves dividing one block of land into two or more separate blocks. Each resulting block receives its own Crown lease. If a new block is created without a dwelling, the Crown lease may include requirements about future development, such as constructing a dwelling within a specified timeframe. Block subdivision focuses on creating separate parcels of land rather than separating individual dwellings. A unit title subdivision involves dividing an existing development, such as a dual occupancy, townhouse development, or apartment building, into separately titled units. The land remains under one Crown lease, but individual units are created as separate titles. Before a unit title subdivision can occur, the development generally needs to be completed and have a Certificate of Occupancy and Use. Unit title subdivisions also include common property, such as shared driveways, gardens, or other shared areas, which are managed by an owners corporation.

In simple terms, a block subdivision creates separate parcels of land, with each new block receiving its own Crown lease. In contrast, a unit title subdivision creates separate ownership of dwellings within an existing development while the land remains under a single Crown lease and shared areas are managed as common property. The distinction is important because the two subdivision types have different legal requirements, approval processes, and ownership arrangements, so understanding which applies determines how the property can be developed, titled, and managed.