Subdivision Map Act: tentative maps: expiration dates

Developers and property owners with qualifying tentative maps have longer to complete the steps needed to record final maps. The longer timelines also apply to maps still valid on December 31, 2026.

What the law does ​

• Extends a tentative map's initial approval period from 24 to 48 months.
• Lets local ordinances grant up to 36 additional months, instead of 24 months.
• Retains 48-month phased-map extensions for qualifying projects with substantial offsite public-improvement costs, subject to the existing 10-year limit.
• Applies the new timelines statewide, including in charter cities.

Who it affects ​

• Subdividers, developers, and property owners pursuing subdivision approvals.
• Cities, counties, and local advisory agencies that approve or conditionally approve tentative maps.

Context ​

Tentative maps are local approvals that generally must remain valid before final subdivision maps can be filed.