What is Deposited Plan Meaning – Key Components and Difference

Understanding Deposited Plans (DP) in Land Management

A deposited plan meaning (DP) is a crucial legal document that delineates the precise boundaries and key features of a land parcel. DPs are necessary whenever a new land parcel is formed, such as during a subdivision, or when an existing parcel is designated for a particular use, like an easement or lease. These plans serve as an authoritative record of property boundaries and are essential for various legal and financial activities, including property transactions, development projects, legal disputes, and securing mortgages.

Key Elements of Deposited Plans:

• Parcel Measurements: Details the exact size, shape, and area of the land, including the length and width of each lot.
• Boundaries: Specifies both physical boundaries, like fences and roads, and unseen boundaries marked by surveyors.
• Subdivision Information: Lists lot numbers and dimensions for parcels within a subdivision.
• Legal Restrictions: Includes details on easements, land resumptions, and other constraints on the property.

Deposited plans are identified by a unique “DP” number and are prepared by registered surveyors before being lodged and registered with the state’s land registry. They are foundational documents for managing property rights and obligations.

Deposited Plans vs. Strata Plans

Deposited plans (DPs) and strata plans are both vital in Australian land management but serve different purposes:

Deposited Plans:

• Focus on defining the legal boundaries of individual land parcels, often involving subdivisions.
• Provide detailed descriptions of land boundaries, including physical features like roads or buildings.
• Required for creating new land parcels or legally defining existing ones for specific uses, such as easements or leases.

Strata Plans:

• Used for multi-unit properties, documenting the boundaries of individual lots or units as well as shared common areas.
• Define the three-dimensional space of each lot within a building or complex, along with common property areas owned collectively by an owners’ corporation.
• Essential for establishing ownership, management, and regulations within a strata scheme, such as in apartment complexes or townhouse developments.

Components of a Deposited Plan

• Lot Boundaries and Dimensions: Clearly defines the legal boundaries of each lot, including measurements of length, width, and area.
• Physical and Unseen Boundaries: Details both visible features like fences and buildings and unseen survey marks that outline property lines.
• Lot Numbers: Assigns a unique identification number to each lot or parcel.
• Easements, Resumptions, and Restrictions: Records any legal restrictions, such as easements or land resumptions, affecting the property.
• DP Number: Each deposited plan meaning  is given a unique identification number (e.g., DP 896528) for reference.
• Surveyor Details: Prepared and certified by registered land surveyors.

In summary, a deposited plan provides a comprehensive and legally recognized overview of a land parcel’s boundaries and features, forming the foundation for various property-related activities and decisions.