There is a nice little guide called "Subdivision Review In New York State" . It is an easy read compared to reading state statutes. I highly recommend reading this whole document. The following has been taken from this guide in my own words. The difference and Purpose of Subdivision Control and Zoning. Distinguishing subdivision approval from other major land use control - Zoning is an important step in understanding why and how different rules and laws are implemented. Zoning is what land may be used for and Subdivision Control is concerned with how land is used. Subdivision Control encourages the provision of adequate facilities, for the housing, distribution, comfort and convenience of local residents. It ensures the basic needs of the local residents in the form of roads and streets and other facilities are adequately provided and planned for. Subdivision control is aimed at protecting the community from an uneconomical development of land, and assuring persons livin...