Land identified on a map or plat, divided into individual lots with assigned numbers or letters, is considered subdivided. This process creates a legal description facilitating its sale, development, and recording of ownership. For example, a residential subdivision with streets, utilities, and individual home sites represents a typical example of this type of mapped land division.
This method of land division offers several advantages. It provides a clear and organized system for identifying and transferring ownership, simplifying the complexities of land transactions. Historically, formalizing land ownership through recorded plats contributed significantly to the organized growth of cities and towns, fostering infrastructure development and efficient land use. This structured approach also aids in planning public services like utility provision and road maintenance.