---
title: What are Major Subdivisions?
description: Major subdivisions under the Montana Subdivision and Platting Act (MSPA) involve creating six or more lots from a single tract since July 1, 1973. These subdivisions require full environmental assessments, public hearings, and extended review timelines to address their broader impacts on infrastructure, services, and community development
---

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November 3, 2025

# What are Major Subdivisions?

## Major Subdivisions in Montana: Comprehensive Review for Larger Land Developments

Major subdivisions are divisions of land proposing to create more than five lots at one time, or proposed divisions that will result in six or more lots being created from a single tract of record since July 1, 1973. Major subdivisions are reviewed subject to the local regulations adopted pursuant to 76-3‐504, MCA by the governing body and following the requirements of the local review procedure set forth under Title 76, Chapter 3, Part 6 of statute. Major subdivisions have longer review timeframes than minor subdivisions, require at least one public hearing, and involve the preparation of a complete environmental assessment. These processes and  
requirements are in place because, generally, major subdivisions are larger subdivisions and have a greater impact – whether cumulative or at one time -- than minor subdivisions.

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