Major Subdivisions

Major Subdivisions usually consist of 5 or more lots that have been divided from the same originating parcel or one of its subdivisions since November 30, 1972. Major subdivisions may be less than 5 lots if four lots have been previously subdivided. 

The major subdivision process follows this general outline, however due to the requirement of Planning Commission approval various stages and resubmittals may be required. 
  1. Determine your subdivision potential. Check with Planning and Codes Department regarding major subdivision potential on your property. Several County and State regulations are involved in making this determination.
  2. Contact Environmental Health (410-479- 8045) to complete a Water and/or Sewer Verification Form (if existing parcel has existing well/septic systems) and or complete a PERC test for any building lots.
  3. If you have not already done so, hire a surveyor and have a Worksheet Plat submitted to Environmental Health. The Worksheet Plat is a free review done by Environmental Health in an attempt to resolve design issues prior to official plat submittal at Planning and Codes.
  4. Formally submit your plats. You will need seven paper copies, a completed and signed application, a signed surveyor checklist and your fees. Please contact both Planning and Codes and Environmental Health for fee information.
  5. The Review. Subdivisions will be initially reviewed by the Technical Advisory Committee (TAC). When a major subdivision is sent to the Planning Commission for reviews depends largely upon the applicant and surveyor.
  6. Resubmittal. Resubmittals should be made per the comments of all the reviewing agencies, the Planning Commission and the Department of Planning and Codes. Contact Matt Kaczynski at 410-479-8100 with any questions or concerns.
  7. Final Submittal. Submit 5 paper and 2 mylar copies with all additional agreements and associated fees.
  8. Recordation. If no further corrections or documentation is required the plat will be signed by the Health Department and Planning and Codes and then will be sent to the Clerk of Circuit Court for recordation.
Contact Matt Kaczynski at 410-479-8100 with questions about subdivisions.

Excise Tax

Excise tax is assessed by the Department of Planning and Codes for all new lots and is collected upon transfer of the lot by the Caroline County Tax Office. The tax is collected for School Construction and Agricultural Preservation. 
  • The excise tax for School Construction is $5,000 and is assessed on all new lots.
  • The excise tax for Agricultural Preservation is $750 and is assessed on all new lots created in the R-Rural Zoning District.
For more information, contact Matt Kaczynski at 410-479-8100. 


Forms & Additional Information