📘 What Is a Subdivision Plat Map?

A Subdivision Plat Map is an official, scaled drawing that shows how a large piece of land has been divided into individual lots, streets, easements, and public areas. Plat maps are recorded with the county and are used to legally describe property boundaries, ownership, and land use.

How Subdivision Plat Maps Work

A subdivision plat is created by a surveyor and approved by local government before development begins. Once recorded, the plat becomes the legal reference for all lots within the subdivision.

Subdivision plat maps typically include:

  • Lot boundaries and dimensions
  • Streets, alleys, and rights-of-way
  • Utility easements (water, sewer, electric)
  • Parks, conservation areas, and common areas
  • Setback lines and building restrictions
  • Official lot numbers for legal descriptions

Every property in a platted subdivision uses the plat map for its legal description, such as “Lot 12, Block B, Greenwood Subdivision, according to the plat recorded in Plat Book 4, Page 22.”

Why Subdivision Plat Maps Matter

For Homebuyers & Property Owners:

  • Shows accurate property boundaries
  • Identifies easements that affect land use
  • Clarifies setbacks and building restrictions
  • Helps avoid boundary disputes

For Builders & Developers:

  • Defines uniform lot layout and infrastructure
  • Ensures the subdivision meets zoning and municipal regulations
  • Creates legal descriptions for each lot

For Title Companies:

  • Used for title searches and closing documents
  • Confirms correct plat book and page for legal descriptions

Example of a Subdivision Plat Map

Here’s what a typical subdivision plat map might show:

  • 50 residential lots arranged along two new streets
  • Sidewalk easements along both sides of the roadway
  • A drainage easement along the rear of the lots
  • A designated green space or park area
  • Clear numbering of each lot and block

All future deeds for these lots will reference the plat map, such as “Lot 27, Block 3, Pine Ridge Subdivision.”

Why Plat Maps Matter for FSBO Sellers

  • Buyers may request a copy to verify boundaries
  • Helps avoid disputes about fences or structures
  • Shows easements that may impact improvements
  • Ensures accurate information on the listing
  • Useful when listing with Flat Fee MLS services

Being familiar with your subdivision plat helps you answer buyer questions confidently and avoid surprises during closing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where do I get a subdivision plat map?
Usually from the county recorder, local property appraiser, or the developer.

Is a plat map the same as a survey?
No. A plat shows the subdivision layout; a survey measures your specific lot’s boundaries.

Do all properties have plat maps?
Only platted subdivisions. Rural or unplatted land uses metes-and-bounds descriptions instead.

Can I build over an easement shown on the plat?
Usually no. Utility easements must remain accessible for maintenance.