Lot Line Adjustments: Repositioning Your Property Boundaries

A Simplified Path to Reconfiguring Your Land

A Lot Line Adjustment (LLA) is a specialized process used to move a property line between two or more adjacent parcels. Unlike a subdivision, an LLA does not create new parcels; instead, it reconfigures the existing ones. At Cardinal Land Surveying, we help you navigate the legal and technical requirements of the California Subdivision Map Act to ensure your boundary change is handled accurately and efficiently.

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Common Reasons for a Lot Line Adjustment

An LLA is often the most cost-effective way to resolve land-use issues in the North Bay and East Bay areas. Common scenarios include:

Resolving Encroachments

Legally moving a line to include a garage, fence, or driveway that was accidentally built over the property boundary.

Improving Property Usability

Reshaping "odd-lot" configurations to create more practical building sites or yard spaces.

Combining Parcels

Merging two or more adjacent lots into one larger parcel for a single development or tax simplified ownership.

Zoning Compliance

Adjusting lines to meet required setbacks for a new building addition or ADU (Accessory Dwelling Unit).

The LLA Process: From Concept to Recordation

Because a Lot Line Adjustment involves local planning and engineering departments, it requires professional oversight. Our team manages the technical workflow:

Feasibility Review

We verify that the adjusted lots will still meet the minimum lot size and setback requirements for your specific city (such as Fairfield, Martinez, or Concord).

Exhibit Mapping

Our surveyors prepare a detailed Exhibits Map (showing before and after lines) and a Site Plan identifying all existing structures, wells, and septic systems.

Legal Descriptions

We draft the precise "Metes and Bounds" legal descriptions for the new parcel configurations—a requirement for the recorded deeds.

Agency Coordination

We submit the application to the local Planning or Public Works Department and coordinate the "Map Check" to secure government approval.

Deed Recordation

Once approved, we work with your title company to ensure the new Grant Deeds are recorded with the County Recorder, officially finalizing the change.

Why Local Expertise Matters

In Solano and Contra Costa Counties, an LLA is often a "ministerial" act, meaning it doesn't require a public hearing—if it meets all local zoning codes. However, if the adjustment makes a lot "non-conforming" (too small or too narrow), the application can be denied.

Cardinal Land Surveying understands the specific municipal codes of the North Bay and East Bay. We ensure your application is "right the first time," saving you months of back-and-forth with county officials.

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Frequently Asked Questions

  • Can I create a new lot with an LLA?

    No. By law, a Lot Line Adjustment cannot result in a greater number of parcels than originally existed. If you want to turn one lot into two, you need a Parcel Map.

  • Do I need a survey to do a Lot Line Adjustment?

    Yes. California law requires that the new legal descriptions and maps be prepared by a Licensed Land Surveyor. In many cases, we also recommend setting new physical monuments (iron pipes or brass discs) so both neighbors know exactly where the new line is located.