Ho Chi Minh City sets 36m2 minimum for land subdivision

The Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee has issued Decision 67, establishing new regulations for land subdivision and consolidation within the city. Under these rules, the minimum area for land subdivision is set at 36m2.

One key provision mandates that commune-level People's Committees must review and certify common access paths to ensure they align with local technical infrastructure, fire safety, and urban aesthetics. The decision also tasks the Department of Natural Resources and Environment with monitoring land registration offices to prevent violations.

Experts have raised concerns regarding potential administrative burdens. Dr. Pham Viet Thuan, Director of the Institute of Resources and Environmental Economics, suggested that requiring citizens to manually obtain path certifications from commune authorities before proceeding with land registration could cause unnecessary inconvenience. He recommended implementing an integrated administrative mechanism where citizens submit a single application, allowing land offices to coordinate electronically with local authorities. Additionally, he advised that relevant departments should establish clear, standardized technical criteria for access paths to prevent inconsistent applications of the law.