illegal land subdivision Jamaica

Thousands of lots across Jamaica have been sold to buyers without the subdivision approval required under the Town and Country Planning Act. Buyers who purchase in unapproved subdivisions risk losing their investment, being unable to obtain title, and facing enforcement action from NEPA and the relevant local authority. This report examines how illegal subdivision fraud operates.

Buyers who purchase agricultural land in Jamaica believing it can be used for residential development often discover that change-of-use approval is required and may not be granted. Sellers and agents who misrepresent agricultural land as development-ready without disclosing the planning restrictions expose themselves to claims of fraudulent misrepresentation. This report examines the change-of-use framework and buyer protections.

Significant portions of Jamaica’s land area are subject to environmental protections that restrict or prohibit development. Buyers who purchase coastal, wetland, or protected area land without understanding these restrictions may find that they cannot build on their investment. This report examines the NEPA and NRCA framework governing environmentally sensitive land, the consequences of illegal development, and what buyers should verify before purchasing.