Land Management Division

Office of the Commissioner of State Lands

The Land Management Division or the Office of the Commissioner of State Lands (COSL) is charged with the overall management, distribution, and allocation of all State Lands. This jurisdiction includes all shorelines below the high-water mark and the seabed within the territorial waters of Trinidad and Tobago. The Division is also responsible for the acquisition of privately owned land for public purposes and the issuance of State Grants.

Our Strategic Framework

Vision Statement

“To enhance the quality of life for all citizens through the balanced stewardship of State Lands and resources.”

Mission Statement

“To sustain the health, diversity, and productivity of State Lands for the use and enjoyment of present and future generations.”

State Lands Management Functions

Effective management is built upon the following pillars:

  • Determining the location, acreage, status, and capability of parcels to inform policy and management decisions.
  • Utilizing Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and geo-positioned maps to ensure accurate data input and prevent the accidental use of private lands.
  • Selecting and tenanting land based on national needs.
  • Periodic inspections to prevent degradation (erosion, deforestation) and unauthorized occupation.

Core Objectives & Activities

The Land Management Division (LMD), operating under the COSL, undertakes the following primary activities:

  • Processing new leases, renewals, and tenancy agreements.
  • Correcting breached tenancies by serving advisory notices to tenants.
  • Acting as the receiver of revenue for approved votes (leases, renewals, etc.).
  • Preparation and registration of State Grants and the grant of consents for transfers, assignments, and mortgages.
  • Approval of building plans on State Lands.
  • Acquiring private land for public purposes.
  • Processing licenses and leases for land reclamation, mines, and quarries.
  • Handling land disputes and related court matters.

Types of Tenure

The COSL Office utilizes different forms of tenure depending on the land use:

Tenure Type Duration Description
Short Term 1 month – 3 years Licenses or agreements for temporary use. Usually non-registered; permanent development is typically prohibited.
Long Term 30 – 99 years Registered leases involving considerable investment. Requires consistent monitoring.
Freehold Permanent Established via State Grants, Vesting Orders, or specific Acts of Parliament.
Reservation Variable Land set aside for the specific use of Government and State Agencies.