In the case of the subdivision of a piece of land into a number of pieces, the land surveyor usually prepares a general plan instead of individual diagrams.

This is a document showing the relative position of two or more pieces of land together with the same essential information in respect of each piece as is required on a diagram. It is also allocated a unique reference number by the Surveyor-General.

It is compulsory to prepare a general plan for any subdivision into ten or more pieces of land and when required in terms of any law, usually for township establishment or the amendment of an existing general plan.

General plans may comprise many sheets and depict a very large number of erven (lots).