General Information

The division of one or more lots which creates no more than four lots is typically permitted by Lot Split (unless the land is unplatted or there are special circumstances); five or more lots requires a new plat of the property (see Platting of Property). See Lot Requirements for a summary of the general requirements for new lots.

Code Requirements

Chapter 69 of the Zoning Code defines a lot split as the division of one or more lots which creates no more than four lots. Lot splits are permitted without platting provided the following conditions are met:

  1. The lot or lots have frontage on an existing improved street (except for back lots) and access to municipal services. For back lots, an easement for pedestrian and municipal services access and house number visibility must be provided as required under 69.508(j).
  2. The lot or lots to be divided are previously platted land. [Note: If any portion of a lot is not previously platted - even if not the portion of a lot where the division is proposed - then we typically require a plat rather than a lot split.]
  3. The lot or lots meet the minimum standards for lot width and area for the zoning district in which they are located.
  4. The division of the lots shall not cause a remaining part of a lot to become a separately described tract which does not meet the minimum standards of the zoning district in which it is located or which does not have street frontage and access to municipal services.
  5. The division does not result in a split zoning classification on a single lot.
  6. The division does not result in the creation of a nonconforming structure or use.
  7. No lot shall be created where the building pad area for the principal structure has an existing slope steeper than eighteen (18) percent or where a driveway steeper than twenty (20) percent is required to reach the building site. However, the planning administrator may approve the creation of a steeper lot, as an exception to this regulation, where the steeper lot is specifically consistent with a City-approved neighborhood plan or redevelopment project.

The Planning Administrator has the authority to approve lot splits that meet all of the required conditions listed above. Where conditions (3), (6), or (7) above are not met, the applicant may apply to the Board of Zoning Appeals for consideration of a variance from the required condition(s). Additionally, lot splits in the Tree Preservation Overlay in Highwood typically require a tree preservation plan, per Zoning Code Article 67.200.

Review of lot split applications is coordinated by Tyler Nelson, PED, 1400 City Hall Annex, 651-266-6470.

Lot Split Fees & Inspections

Fees

Lot Split $315.00

Inspections

Inspections are done as part of the building permit for any new construction. You can now schedule an inspection through PAULIE.

Application

Zoning applications are submitted online through PAULIE, the City of Saint Paul's permitting and licensing platform. You can apply, track application status, and communicate with City staff in this centralized, secure, and mobile-friendly platform.​

To get started, click the "Get Ready" button below. This will take you to our dedicated PAULIE webpage, providing important information about what to expect in the platform.​

Get Ready to Apply in PAULIE

When you're ready to apply:​

  • Open the application link. This will bring you to the application listing in PAULIE. If you're not already logged in, you'll first need to log in or register for a free account. ​
  • Register for a free account. This will allow you to track all licensing, permitting, and inspection needs in one place.​
  • Follow application instructions. PAULIE will guide you through the application process step-by-step. You can save and continue your application at any time.​

Lot Split Application in PAULIE

Expiration/Renewal

No decision of the Zoning or Planning Administrator, Planning Commission, Board of Zoning Appeals or City Council approving a site plan, permit, variance, or other zoning approval shall be valid for a period longer than two years, unless a building permit is obtained within such period and the erection or alteration of a building is proceeding under the terms of the decision, or the use is established within such period by actual operation pursuant to the applicable conditions and requirements of the approval, unless the Zoning or Planning Administrator grants an extension not to exceed one year.