Land Use FAQs for Property Owners, Developers and Investors
Presented by Hunter Law Group
Whether you’re a homeowner looking to divide your property, a developer assembling parcels for a project, or an investor seeking to maximize land value, navigating local land use laws can be complex. Two commonly misunderstood processes — lot splits and replats — are critical tools for legally modifying property boundaries.
At Hunter Law Group, we assist property owners and developers across Missouri and Kansas with lot splits, replats, and other land use matters. Below is a breakdown in FAQ format to help you understand the difference between the two, when you might need them and why professional legal guidance is essential.
Q: What is a lot split?
A lot split is the legal division of a single parcel of land into two or more smaller lots. It’s commonly used by landowners who want to:
- Sell part of their property
- Create an additional building lot
- Separate an existing structure from surrounding land
- Reconfigure property lines with a neighbor
Most cities and counties require approval from local zoning or planning departments before a lot split can be recorded.
Q: What is a replat?
A replat is a more comprehensive legal process where an existing recorded subdivision plat is modified, redrawn or replaced. Replats are typically used when:
- Multiple lots are being combined or reconfigured
- Setbacks, easements, or building lines need to be adjusted
- Streets, utilities, or common areas are affected
- A previous plat is outdated or inaccurate
A replat often requires public notice, hearings and formal approval from a city council or planning commission.
Q: What’s the main difference between a lot split and a replat?
Q: When would a landowner need a lot split?
You might need a lot split if you:
- Own a large residential lot and want to sell off a portion
- Inherited land and want to divide it among heirs
- Are building a second home or ADU (accessory dwelling unit) on your land
- Need to clarify legal boundaries between you and a neighbor
Pro tip: Don’t assume you can split a lot just because there’s enough space. Zoning regulations, minimum lot sizes, access requirements and utility easements all come into play.
Q: When would a landowner need a replat?
Replats are generally needed in more complex or multi-lot scenarios, such as:
- Developers combining or adjusting lots for a new subdivision
- Homeowners’ associations updating lot layouts or easements
- Investors modifying recorded plats to better suit development plans
- Projects that require changes to setbacks, drainage or road layouts
Some cities require a replat even for what seems like a minor boundary adjustment — especially if the property is part of a platted subdivision.
Q: Do cities treat lot splits and replats differently?
Yes. Every jurisdiction has its own ordinances and procedures. For example:
- Lot splits may be approved administratively in some cities, meaning no public hearing is required.
- Replats almost always require review by a planning commission, and sometimes city council, with public notice to surrounding property owners.
Some cities treat even a simple adjustment between two lots as a replat if those lots are part of an existing plat.
That’s why it’s critical to have an attorney who understands local land use laws and knows how to work with planning staff and city boards.
Q: What are the risks of doing it wrong?
Improperly executed lot splits or replats can result in:
- Inability to obtain building permits
- Title issues or challenges at sale
- Utility access problems
- Zoning violations or enforcement actions
- Delays and added costs for your project
Whether you’re a homeowner or developer, skipping legal review can lead to long-term headaches.
Q: How can Hunter Law Group help?
At Hunter Law Group, we guide property owners through the full land use process in both Missouri and Kansas, including:
- Determining whether a lot split or replat is required
- Preparing and submitting required applications and legal descriptions
- Coordinating with surveyors, engineers, and title companies
- Representing clients before planning commissions, zoning boards and city councils
- Ensuring compliance with local zoning, subdivision and platting ordinances
We help streamline the process, prevent costly mistakes and protect your investment.
Q: Is this only for developers? What about individual homeowners?
You don’t need to be a developer to benefit from our services. We frequently assist:
- Homeowners dividing land for family or resale
- Farmers and rural landowners adjusting parcel boundaries
- Small-scale builders and investors optimizing lot configurations
- Real estate agents working on deals with complex land issues
If your property involves legal boundaries, plats or public approvals, we can help.
Ready to Move Forward?
If you’re considering a lot split or replat in Missouri or Kansas, don’t go it alone. Let Hunter Law Group handle the legal work so your project stays on track and in compliance.
Call us today or send us a message if you’d like to schedule a consultation.