A simple tool to estimate parkland dedication or cash-in-lieu requirements for subdivision in British Columbia.
Why this matters
Parkland dedication is a standard requirement in subdivision, but it is not always well understood.
Under Section 510 of Local Government Act (British Columbia), most subdivisions require up to 5 percent of land to be provided for park purposes or an equivalent cash payment.
That sounds straightforward. In practice, it is not.
You often need a quick answer during early discussions:
- How much land could be required
- What the equivalent cash value might be
- Whether the requirement applies at all
This tool gives you that answer immediately.
What this tool does
- Estimates maximum parkland dedication (5%)
- Calculates a cash-in-lieu equivalent based on land value
- Helps you test scenarios early, before detailed design
- Works as a quick check during meetings, calls, or file review
It is not a substitute for bylaw interpretation or appraisal. It is a fast, consistent starting point.
Why I created it
I kept seeing the same issue.
Parkland dedication comes up early in subdivision discussions, but the calculation is often done inconsistently or left too late. People rely on rough guesses or dig through legislation mid-conversation.
That slows things down and creates confusion.
I built this to:
- Give a clear, immediate estimate
- Ground early conversations in something concrete
- Reduce back-and-forth on basic calculations
- Keep the focus on planning decisions, not math
This reflects how the requirement actually works in practice. A simple rule, applied in many different contexts.
How this helps you
Use it when you need to:
- Sense-check a subdivision concept
- Explain parkland requirements to applicants or colleagues
- Compare land dedication versus cash-in-lieu
- Prepare for pre-application or internal discussions
It is especially useful for planners, developers, and anyone working through subdivision feasibility.
Who this is for
- Planners and development reviewers
- Developers and consultants
- Surveyors and design teams
- Anyone working on subdivision in BC
If you deal with subdivision, you will run into this requirement regularly. This tool makes it easier to work with.
Key takeaway
Parkland dedication is a small percentage, but it has real implications for land yield, cost, and design.
This tool helps you understand that impact quickly and consistently.
Keywords: parkland dedication BC, cash in lieu parkland, subdivision requirements BC, Local Government Act parkland, planning tools BC, subdivision calculator