Subdivisions and Partitions can be looked at as major and minor divisions of land. If a parcel of land is being divided into three or less smaller parcels, it is considered a Partition. If it is being divided into more than three, it is a Subdivision. Each has their own process and requirements so contacting the Planning Department in the city or county the division is in, is the first step in this process.
Below are examples of Partitions done by Baxter Land Surveying