Subdivision Regulations

A subdivision plat shall be required for every owner of any tract of land (within city limits and in the extraterritorial jurisdiction -ETJ) who may, divide said tract into two or more lots or tracts, or create from said tract one or more lots of record, including an addition to the City of Waco, for the following purposes:

  1. Laying out suburban, building, or other lots; or
  2. Transfer of ownership; or
  3. The laying out streets, alleys, squares, easements, parks, or other parts of the tract intended to be dedicated for public use; or
  4. The use of purchasers or owners of lots fronting on or adjacent to the streets, alleys, squares, parks or other parts of the tract intended to be dedicated for public use.

Definition of a Plat

A plat is a survey of property that describes the dimensions and location of the property, street right-of-way, and easements. A plat also establishes the lot, block, and subdivision name used in real estate transactions. A plat is a legal document complete with a drawing of the property boundaries, a written description of those boundaries, a dedication statement from the property owner, a title block, and approval statements and certifications. Plats must be prepared and sealed by a Registered Professional Land Surveyor.

The Reason for Platting

The platting process ensures that all lots comply with the City of Waco’s standards for development that are intended to protect the public health, safety, and welfare. Plats are reviewed for compliance with regulations regarding minimum lot size, width and depth; street access and width; utility provisions; parks and open space provisions; drainage and flood plain protection.

The City of Waco regulates subdivision platting within its city limits and ETJ through an adopted subdivision ordinance. A subdivision plat is required to be submitted for processing if there is an anticipated division of a tract of land into two or more parts, and for the purpose of obtaining a building permit or an on-site sewage facility (OSSF).

A property owner may sell or convey a tract of land that is currently not platted in the City of Waco or the ETJ to a prospective buyer. It is recommended, however, that the seller advise the buyer of the need for platting if the buyer intends to obtain a building permit or an on-site sewage facility (OSSF). Please contact Planning Services to discuss your property situation before you sell or purchase property, or begin construction on your new home or business.

Information Required to Submit a Plat and the Process for Platting in Waco and the ETJ

The platting process begins with a preapplication conference between the property owner and city staff to discuss the type of plat and items needed for processing the subdivision plat. The preapplication conference is not required, however it is highly recommended.

Plats will be submitted by a Registered Professional Land Surveyor online through CSS and will need to include the items identified on the following checklists to be considered complete

The submittal of these items on the monthly deadline date, as noted on the Planning Calendar, will then initiate the process of review by the various city, county, and utility departments.

Planning Services
(254) 750-5650
planning@wacotx.gov