In the three-phase development and construction sequence, which step comes last before building permits are issued?

• A. Land acquisition
• B. Subdividing and development
• C. Recording the subdivision plat map
• D. Dedication

Answer: (C)

Understanding why a subdivision becomes legally buildable hinges on putting the plan into the public record. In the three-phase development sequence, the last action before building permits are issued is recording the subdivision plat map with the county. This plat map lays out exactly how the land will be divided into lots and blocks, where the streets and easements run, and what public dedications (such as streets or utilities) are being conveyed to the public. Recording it creates the official, enforceable record that the planning and building departments use to verify boundaries, access, and approved improvements before permits can be granted. Without this recorded map, there’s no legal framework for issuing permits, even if earlier steps like land acquisition and subdivision planning are complete. Dedication is typically incorporated into the plat and becomes effective through that recording, rather than standing as a separate pre-permit action.