SEC. 1303. SCOPE.
§ 1303
This section establishes when San Francisco requires subdivision maps (Tentative Maps, Final Maps, and Parcel Maps) based on the number of parcels or units created, and identifies exemptions from map requirements under state law.
If you're splitting land into five or more parcels, you must file a Tentative Map and either a Final Map or Parcel Map, depending on whether your project falls under certain state law exceptions. If you're splitting land into fewer than five parcels, you only need to file a Parcel Map (unless you choose to file a vesting tentative map). Some subdivisions are completely exempt from needing any map, though certain exempt projects still need certification. The Director of Public Works can skip the Parcel Map requirement for subdivisions of contiguous land that already comply with all applicable rules for lot size, improvements, roads, drainage, and utilities.
- Complex:The section is highly cross-referential to State Subdivision Map Act sections (66412, 66426, 66428) and multiple other Code sections, making it difficult to understand without consulting multiple sources.
- Could be simpler:The nested subsections (c)(1) and (c)(2) both address five-or-more-parcel subdivisions using exceptions language that could be consolidated more clearly.
AI-generated · claude-haiku-4-5 · informational only, not legal advice.
Official text
(a) This Code supplements SMA, prescribing rules, regulations and procedures authorized therein.
(b) The necessity for Tentative Maps, Final Maps and Parcel Maps shall be governed by this Section and SMA.
(c) For subdivisions creating five or more parcels or units, a Tentative Map and a Final Map or Parcel Map shall be required pursuant to this Code and SMA.
(1) A Tentative Map and a Final Map shall be required for all such subdivisions except those coming within the exceptions set forth in Section 66426 of SMA.
(2) A Tentative Map and a Parcel Map shall be required for all such subdivisions coming within the exceptions set forth in Section 66426 of SMA.
(d) For subdivisions creating fewer than five parcels or units, no Tentative Map shall be required except as provided in Section 1333.1(a) with respect to vesting tentative maps. In all subdivisions creating fewer than five parcels or units where the subdivider does not choose to file a vesting other Tentative Map, a Parcel Map containing the information specified by Section 1359 of this Code and SMA shall be required. Said Parcel Map shall be filed with the City Engineer and recorded according to the procedure set forth in Sections 1360 through 1364 of this Code.
(e) No Tentative Map, Final Map or Parcel Map shall be required for those specific types of subdivision exempted by Sections 66412 and 66428 of SMA; provided, however, that with respect to subdivisions described in Subsection (h) of Section 66412 of the SMA, certification pursuant to the provisions of Section 1397 must be obtained.
(f) The Director of Public Works shall waive the requirement of a Parcel Map for any improved or unimproved land shown on the latest equalized County assessment roll as contiguous units or parcels where the units or parcels have been subdivided legally and comply with the requirements as to lot width and area, improvement and design, floodwater drainage control, appropriate improved public roads, sanitary disposal facilities, water supply availability and environmental protection.
(Amended by Ord. 576-85, App. 12/27/85)