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Land Use Law Center Strategies for Scattered Site & Infill Development Checklist
Date Added: Friday, April 21, 2017Land Use Planning, Urban Renewal, Vacant & Distressed Properties, Streamlining
New York
Municipal
The Land Use Law Center created this checklist to assist municipalities in planning for infill and scattered site development. The checklist contains guidance from the beginning steps, such as identifying properties with redevelopment potential to engaging the community. The document also contains a checklist to present tools to help municipalities create and implement streamlined project review protocols to encourage economic development while still protecting the environment.
*This document was prepared with funds provided by the New Y..
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Town of Cortlandt Steep Slopes Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017Steep Slope Protection, Zoning, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
This law recognizes the importance that the future development of land has on the Town of Cortlandt, and focuses on steep slopes in particular as they demand a higher degree of environmental sensitivity. Chapter 259 of the Town Code of Cortlandt establishes regulations which prevent improper disturbance or alteration of steep slopes. The purpose legislature was not to restrict general development in the town but to protect natural resources and preserve the visual and environmental character of the land. ..
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Town of North Castle Hilltops, Ridgelines & Steep Slopes Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Ridgeline Protection, Steep Slope Protection, Zoning
New York
Municipal
§ 213-17 of the Town Code for the Town of North Castle was enacted for the purpose of preventing erosion, minimizing stormwater runoff and flooding, and preserving the Town's character and property values. The means by which the Town attempts to reach this goal is by preventing the development of hilltops, ridgelines and steep slopes...
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State of New York Freshwater Wetlands Regulations
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Recreational Uses, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
State
Article 24-Title 7 of New York State Consolidated Laws promulgates the sustained and safe use of Freshwater and Wetlands in the Town. Under the law, any person that wishes to engage in any of the enumerated activities including: draining, dredging, dumping, filling, in wetland areas as designated by the official map, shall seek a permit which will either be granted or denied depending on the outcome of the local government or the commissioner’s consideration of the effect of the proposed activity with reference to the public health and welfare,..
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Village of Bronxville Site Plan & Subdivision Approval Standards
Date Added: Tuesday, April 18, 2017Site Design Standards, Stormwater Management, Subdivision Approvals, Watershed Protection, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
The Village of Bronxville, New York, requires any land being cleared or altered, any building or other structure being constructed, demolished, moved, externally altered or enlarged, any water course, floodplain or wetlands being diverted, dredged or filled, any use of land, building, or other structure being changed, any building or other use permit being issued, to receive the final approval of a site plan granted by the Planning Board. However, detached single-family residential buildings permitted as-of-right under the applicable zoning reg..
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Town of Brookhaven Land Division Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 28, 2017Subdivision Approvals, Zoning
New York
Municipal
This law sets forth the application requirements for persons seeking to divide their land into multiple plots. ..
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Village of Westfield Zoning Code § 155-57 Solar Systems; Solar Zoning; Solar Access
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Village of Westfield’s supplemental zoning regulations regulates the use of active and passive solar energy systems. Westfield’s solar regulation requires special permits to authorize the placement of a solar electric system on an owner’s property. After a system’s owner obtains this permit, adjoining property owners must obtain a special permit prior to placing buildings, towers, vegetation, or other possible obstructions of the permitted system’s solar access. The regulation specifies that placement of potential obstructions “shall be suc..
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New York State Constitution Article I Section 7
Date Added: Monday, October 17, 2016Land Acquisition
New York
State
Article I Section 7 of the NY State Constitution relates to eminent domain. Along with eminent domain and private property in general, the legislature establishes that private roads may be opened upon a jury determination. In addition, Article 7 establishes that construction and maintenance of the drainage systems for swamp and agricultural lands is permissible even when those lands are privately owned. Rules regarding compensation under these circumstances are also presented in this article...
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Town of Irondequoit Historic Preservation Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Historic Preservation, Local Boards, Landmarks & Historical Districts
New York
Municipal
Chapter 236 of the Town Code for the Town of Irondequoit recognizes the rich, varied history of Irondequoit. It was enacted to protect and enhance the landmarks and historic districts which represent distinctive elements of Irondequoit's historic, architectural, and cultural heritage; to foster civic pride in the accomplishments of the past; to protect and enhance Irondequoit's appeal to visitors and the support and stimulus to the economy thereby provided; and to insure the harmonious, orderly, and efficient growth and development of the Town..
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The Town of Middleburgh Nonconforming Uses, Structures and Lots Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, May 23, 2017Flood Prevention, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Town of Middleburgh has several districts which must meet certain specifications. Parcels in the Flood Protection District (FPD) must comply with the Flood Damage Prevention Law and new parcels (after 12/31/07) must comply with the district requirements. The Planned Development District (PDD) was designed to accommodate such large-scale uses as to the benefit to the community. The law is not intended to restrict the construction or use of underground or overhead public utility distribution facilities. There are specific restrictions on gaso..
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Parking Best Practices: A Review of Zoning Regulations and Policies in Select US and International Cities
Date Added: Friday, July 17, 2015Parking
New York
Municipal
This document is a compilation of parking regulations and policies used in various cities throughout the United States, Canada, and London. The study identified 21 policies implemented in 15 different cities that address on-street and off-street parking resources, as well as traffic congestion. A comprehensive list of definitions and examples of the parking policies are provided, in addition to case studies illustrating their implementation. Resources are provided where more information can be obtained about individual cities, as well as genera..
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Town of Southampton, NY Pre-Application Process
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021Pre-Application & Consensus Building
New York
Municipal
The Town of Southampton, NY requires an in-depth pre-application process for subdivision approval for developers. The zoning code involves detailed steps that requires a lot of information from the developer upfront. The developer is required to set up a fee schedule with the town and may have to pay the town an upfront cost to be held in escrow for any additional clerical or consulting costs incurred during the application process. The subdivision developer must also provide an alternative cluster plan to their development. The planning board ..
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Village of Tarrytown Historic Districts & Landmarks Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, January 19, 2017Landmarks & Historical Districts
New York
Municipal
The Historic Districts and Landmarks Ordinance was created to protect and promote the use of historic districts and landmark sites which will stabilize and improve property values while also attracting tourists and visitors...
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Town of Malta Farming Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016Right-to-Farm, Farmland Protection & Preservation
New York
Municipal
It is the general purpose and intent of this chapter to maintain and preserve the rural tradition and character of the Town of Malta, to permit the continuation of agricultural practices, to protect the existence and operation of farms and to encourage the initiation and expansion of farms and agricultural businesses...
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Town of Blooming Grove Zoning & Overlay Districts Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 6, 2017Overlay District, Ridgeline Protection, Scenic Resources, Zoning
New York
Municipal
Chapter 235, Section 235-5, of the Town Code for the Town of Blooming Grove establishes different zoning and overlay districts and it describes the purpose of these districts. The purpose of the overlay district is to protect specific types of resources such as scenic views/ scenic roads, and ridgelines. Overlay districts do not change the use of the district, but impose on it, specific requirements that must be followed...
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City of Albany Pesticide Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, March 19, 2017Local Environmental Law, Agriculture, Pesticide Management
New York
Municipal
The purpose of this law is to phase out the use of pesticides in Albany, NY. The law sets forth a plan for “reduction, substitution and elimination” of pesticides for each of the City’s departments that have used and continue to use pesticides. ..
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New York State Town Law Subdivision Review; Approval of Plats; Additional Requisites Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Subdivision Approvals
New York
State
This law authorizes Town Boards in New York State to do Subdivision Review. The topics covered include: the purpose, additional requirements, compliance with zoning regulations, reservation of parkland on subdivision plats containing residential units, character of development, application for area variance, installation of fire alarm devices, performance bonds or other securities and provision of improvements by town. ..
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State of New York Transfer of Development Rights Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Purchase of Development Rights, Scenic Resources, Transfer of Development Rights (TDR), Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Farmland Protection & Preservation
New York
State
This law authorizes cities within New York State to transfer development rights with respect to parcels of land under zoning ordinances or local laws, and also governs the transfer of development rights between sending and receiving districts...
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State of New York Intermunicipal Cooperation in Comprehensive Planning & Land Use Regulation
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Land Use Planning
New York
State
This law expresses statutory authority for city governments in New York State to enter into agreements with one another for comprehensive planning and land use regulation in order to facilitate intergovernmental cooperation in an effective and efficient way...
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Village of Port Chester New York Planning Commission and Zoning Board of Appeals Training
Date Added: Wednesday, March 15, 2017Local Boards, Local Governance
New York
Municipal
This law requires that the members of the Planning Commission and the Zoning Board of Appeals, for the Village of Port Chester, meet mandatory training and attendance requirements, in order to ensure that these members understand the authority given to them, and have the request knowledge of land use law in order to apply their power appropriately. ..
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New York State Town Law: § 283. Issuance of Licenses and Permits in Certain Towns
Date Added: Wednesday, March 15, 2017Local Boards, Local Governance
New York
State
In towns which have a building department, which has been set up as an adjunct of the town planning board, this law gives authority to that department to issue all license or permits, and to collect whatever fees are required by law. ..
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City of Newburgh Zoning Law, Section 300- 52 Environmental Constraints
Date Added: Tuesday, May 23, 2017Steep Slope Protection, Zoning
New York
Municipal
Consistent with the general purposes of the City of Newburgh Zoning Law, the Supplementary Regulations set forth environmental constraints to control potentially objectionable external aspects of all uses. The regulations require specific conditions for steep slopes (greater than 15%): adequate erosion control and drainage measures must be in place to prevent erosion and sedimentation; the cutting of natural vegetation must be minimized; safety hazards such as subsidence, road washouts, landslides, flooding, or avalanches must be prevented; and..
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New York State Town Law – Grant of Power Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Land Use Planning, Local Boards, State Land Use Law, Zoning
New York
State
The following law grants authority to Town Boards in New York State to regulate and restrict the height, number of stories and size of buildings and other structures, the percentage of lot that may be occupied, the size of yards, courts, and other open spaces, the density of population, and the location and use of buildings, structures and land for trade, industry, residence or other purposes; provided that such regulations shall apply to and affect only such part of a town as is outside the limits of any incorporated village or city; provid..
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Town of Kingston, New York Code - Article XV: Solar Energy Systems
Date Added: Thursday, June 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
Kingston amended its zoning ordinance to permit small-scale solar energy systems by right and ground-mounted solar energy systems as accessory structures in all zoning districts. Large-scale solar energy systems are allowed in the Town by a Special Use Permit.
..
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Town of North Salem Planning Board Meeting Attendance Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, January 26, 2017Local Boards, Local Governance
New York
Municipal
This law creates attendance requirements for persons on the Town Planning Board of North Salem, NY. ..
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Land Use Law Center Diagnostic Checklist of Redevelopment Readiness Techniques
Date Added: Saturday, April 22, 2017Economic Development, Land Use Planning
New York
N/A
The Land Use Law Center created this checklist to assess a municipality’s readiness for redevelopment. The checklist contains questions intended to determine what redevelopment strategies a municipality has in place or will be able to implement. The diagnostic checklist assesses readiness in nine areas, including financial incentives and community support. The information obtained using this diagnostic checklist can be used to tailor redevelopment strategies to a municipality’s needs.
*This document was prepared with funds provided by the..
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State of New York Coordination with Agricultural Districts Program
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016Agriculture, Farmland Protection & Preservation
New York
State
This law states that local governments shall not pass rules or regulations that unreasonably restrict farm structures or practices unless they bear a direct relationship to public health and safety. Any application for development in an agricultural zone, or within five hundred feet of one, must include an agricultural data statement that the developer must send to the town board, planning board, or zoning board of appeals, as well as to the owner of the agricultural property. ..
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Village of Mamaroneck TOD Zoning Study
Date Added: Thursday, October 29, 2015Affordable Housing , Overlay District, Transit Oriented Development (TOD), Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Village of Mamaroneck was awarded a grant from the Tri-State Transportation Campaign (TSTC) and the One Region Funders’ Group to conduct a community-based Transit Oriented Development (TOD) zoning study that would result in a draft zoning ordinance for the area near the Mamaroneck Metro-North Railroad Station.
Mamaroneck has access to public transit, through the Westchester County Bee-Line Bus and Metro North, as well as major transportation corridors including I-95 (New England Thruway), the Hutchinson River Parkway and U.S. Route 1 (B..
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Town of Tonawanda Code § 215-180(C)(9) Large Scale Solar Applications; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Town of Tonawanda authorizes applicants for large-scale or utility-scale solar energy systems to negotiate with adjacent property owners for any necessary solar skyspace easements and requires the applicant to include documentation of any solar skyspace easement that is properly recorded. The Town lists the elements that must, at a minimum, be included in the easement when an applicant or property owner negotiates a solar easement. Town of Tonawanda, NY, Code § 215-180(C)(9)...
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Town of Malta Downtown Overlay District
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Overlay District, Transportation Efficient Development
New York
Municipal
Malta’s Downtown Overlay District is intended to concentrate new development within easy reach of existing and future transportation, and to incorporate traditional neighborhood design principles to create a pedestrian-friendly mixed-use town center. The ordinance encourages new residential development within a five-minute or ¼-mile walk of the town center and aims to develop compact, defined urban neighborhoods and to facilitate convenient and safe movement throughout the community for all modes of transportation...
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Town of Batavia Sewer Use Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Sewage Management
New York
Municipal
This law regulates the use of public and private sewers and drains, the installation and connection of building sewers, the discharge of waters and wastes into the public sewer system, the quantity and quality of discharged wastes, the degree of pretreatment required, the control of industrial wastewater discharge and of other miscellaneous permits and provide penalties for violations thereof in the Town of Batavia, Genesee County, New York. These regulations prohibit the disposal into the public sewer system of any pollutant or waste by any pe..
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Town of Brookhaven, Chapter 8: Bay and Harbor Bottoms
Date Added: Wednesday, February 10, 2016Coastal Protection, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
This ordinance is designed to prevent conflicts of use and provide for the safe navigation of waters within the Town. It provides definitions of those assets and land affected by the ordinance and then sets forth the different permitted uses and forbidden acts in regards to the area. In particular, a permit policy is established and punishments prescribed for the breaking of the ordinance. ..
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Town of Eden Stormwater Management & Erosion Control Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, May 4, 2017Development Standards, Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Stormwater Management
New York
Municipal
Chapter 177 of the Town Code for the Town of Eden serves to decrease stormwater and erosion problems, associated with increased development in Eden, NY. Article II. Stormwater Management and Erosion and Sediment Control Within the Regulated MS4 Overlay District was added in 2007 and describes regulations to manage stormwater, and erosion and control sediment within the RMS4 overlay district, which is a district which has been determined by federal and state agencies to be a regulated municipal separate storm sewer system (RMS4) under the Phase..
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Town of Bedford Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
Within its Zoning Chapter, the Town of Bedford includes solar panels in its Accessory buildings or structures section, § 125-27. Bedford lists solar energy collectors and studios as an accessory structure permitted in all districts, subject to a list of requirements including floor area minimums and maximums, height maximums, and ground floor area measurements. § 125-27, however, does not specify requirements for solar energy systems individually.
Bedford created the Bedford Energy Task Force to help the Bedford 2020 Coalition accomplish ..
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Updated Town and Village of Middleburgh Comprehensive Plan
Date Added: Monday, June 11, 2018Comprehensive Planning, Economic Development, Flood Prevention, Historic Preservation, Land Use Planning, Open Space Preservation, Solar Energy, Farmland Protection & Preservation
New York
Municipal
The Town and Village of Middleburgh, New York’s 2015 Comprehensive Plan calls for commercial-scale solar farms to be allowed through a Special Use Permit and that standards be applied to this use that ensures consistency with the scenic, environmental, and agricultural needs of the community. According to the plan, modifications to the community’s zoning ordinance should be made to ensure that these farms do not create negative aesthetic impacts and or direct glare onto roads or neighboring properties. The Plan also calls for the Town’s zoning ..
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Village of Croton-on-Hudson Gateway Overlay District Zoning Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, May 3, 2017Development Standards, Overlay District, Zoning
New York
Municipal
Croton-on-Hudson has developed a scheme for the creation of physical gateway areas comprised of roads and surrounding areas where those first encountering the village will derive a sense of arrival and connection to the village, which will establish a favorable impression of the community. Restrictions will be placed on development within these areas to ensure and preserve a residential feel and provide a more defined entrance into the village for incoming motorists and pedestrians, which ultimately will bring a more favorable image to the comm..
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Envision Cortlandt – 2016 Sustainable Comprehensive Plan
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018Comprehensive Planning, Solar Energy
New York
Municipal
In 2014, the Town of Cortlandt established by resolution a Solar Task Force. This Task Force spent one year exploring the possibility of installing solar energy systems on Town buildings and determining ways that solar energy systems can be adopted by residents. In 2015, the Task Force presented twelve recommendations to the Town Board, all of which were received. By the end of that year, three of the Task Force’s recommendations had already been completed, including adopting the New York State Unified Solar Permit, joining the Sustainable West..
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City of Nampa Corridor Beautification Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, January 19, 2017Landscaping
New York
Municipal
In response to an increasing number of businesses that directly abutted thoroughfares in Nampa without any landscaping to buffer their appearance, Nampa initiated the idea of a corridor beautification ordinance. The ordinance requires land between the front of properties and a road to be fully landscaped from a select list of trees and shrubs. It is the responsibility of the property owner to maintain the landscaping. One of the main goals of the ordinance is to present an appealing image to people traveling in the city, and to reduce heat, no..
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City of Kingston Roundout Creek & Hudson Riverfront Districts Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Waterfront Revitalization, Zoning, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
This law creates the Rondout Creek and Hudson Riverfront Districts, in order to afford priority to water dependant uses, achieve public access to the coastal area, control development, and to implement the policies and purposes of the City of Kingston Local Waterfront Revitalization Program. This law also sets up a permit and special permit system, for person’s seeking to build or conduct certain activities within these protected districts. ..
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Village of Patchogue Historical Preservation and Architectural Review Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016Historic Preservation, Zoning
New York
Municipal
It is the purpose of Chapter 93, § 70 of the Municipal Code for the Village of Patchogue to establish procedures and design criteria necessary to avoid buildings within the Village that lack uniformity or are inappropriately designed and located. The goal is to preserve and enhance the character, historical interest, beauty, and general welfare of the Village and to ensure that the location and design of buildings, signs, other structures, and open spaces in the Village aid in creating a balanced and harmonious composition of the whole as well ..
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Town of Gardiner Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Flood Prevention, Floodplain Regulations, Disaster Mitigation
New York
Municipal
Town of Gardiner NY Flood Damage Prevention ordinance (Chapter 121) is an attempt to minimize private and public loss due to flood conditions by controlling alterations in floodplains, regulating the construction of barriers in floodplains, regulating floodplain usages which may be dangerous to citizens and the environment, and controlling areas that are likely to be affected by floods and erosion. The code provides objectives to ensure that people who occupy flood lands are responsible for their actions and works to minimize public expenditure..
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Land trust response To renewable energy siting challenges in New York
Date Added: Wednesday, July 11, 2018New York
N/A
For partial fulfillment for his Master of Science in Environmental Policy from the Bard College’s Center for Environmental Policy, Mr. Collin Adkins submitted his Master’s Capstone titled “Land trust response to renewable energy siting challenges in New York." Within this report, Mr. Adkins “creates a baseline assessment of New York’s land trusts that evaluates the extent to which land trusts are aware of and responding to the changing policies around renewable energy and its impacts on land use.” The report goes further by suggesting five area..
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Village of Briarcliff Manor Conservation Advisory Council
Date Added: Thursday, April 6, 2017Local Boards, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
This law, passed by the Board of Trustees of the Village of Briarcliff Manor, creates an advisory council which is to be known as the “Briarcliff Manor Conservation Advisory Council”. The law outlines the membership qualifications for persons on the council, describes the procedures for appointing officers, setting meeting times and creating reports, and vests the council with its powers. ..
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Agricultural District
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018Urban Farming & Community Gardens
New York
Municipal
The town of Ulysses, New York created policy to protect an area of historical and functional use as an agriculture district. The stated purpose of this zone is “to protect the agricultural production resources. . . viable agricultural operations and the agricultural heritage of the town.” This zoning district – called A1 – has been designated as an area whose primary land use is agriculture; the town created limitations on what structures can be erected and what purpose the land can be used for within the district. They also state that any prac..
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Town of Orangetown Comprehensive Plan
Date Added: Wednesday, October 21, 2015Comprehensive Planning
New York
Municipal
The Comprehensive Plan outlines the current conditions in Orangetown, and describes what changes will take place under the new plan. Current land uses are discussed in relations to the roads that service them. Housing types and densities are given, and land use goals and objectives for different districts are described...
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City of New Rochelle, New York Code § 331-25 - Solar energy collectors
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
New Rochelle, New York allows certain small-scale, roof-mounted systems as accessory uses under the City’s general accessory use definition. Solar energy collectors on one- or two- family dwellings, as well as those that cover less than 1,000 square feet of the roof area of other buildings, require only a building permit...
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White Plains, NY Inclusionary Zoning
Date Added: Thursday, August 3, 2023Incentive Zoning, Zoning
New York
Municipal
There is a mandatory set-aside requirement for affordable units for any multi-family rental or mixed-use development that includes 10 or more residential rental units. If there are 10-14 units, there needs to be at least 1 affordable unit at 60% AMI. If there are 15+ units, the developer can choose to have 12% affordable units at 80% AMI or 8% of affordable units, 80% at 60% AMI, and 20% at 50% AMI. Compliance can be met by the inclusion of affordable units within an ARHP development or payment of a fee-in-lieu of providing affordable units wit..
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Town of Chili Agricultural Conservation District Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017Accessory Uses , Open Space Preservation, Agriculture, Farmland Protection & Preservation
New York
Municipal
This law was created by the Town Board of Chili, NY, in an effort to protect agricultural lands within the town by creating the Agricultural Conservation District. The law describes: the accessory and conditional uses that are allowed, the dimension requirements for the district, incentive zoning requirements and other miscellaneous requirements needed to set up the district. ..
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Town of Hailey Outdoor Lighting Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, January 19, 2017Lighting
New York
Municipal
In June of 2002, the town of Hailey adopted a local ordinance requiring the reduction of nighttime lighting, to “protect and reclaim the ability to view the night sky.” The law regulates light pollution by requiring outdoor lighting to shine downward only, and by regulating the illuminance or brightness level. Energy conservation and the ability to view the night sky are the primary environmental benefits. All residents and businesses must comply with the regulation within 1-3 years of its adoption. There has been little controversy, if any..
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Village of Croton-on-Hudson Visual Environment Advisory Board
Date Added: Wednesday, May 3, 2017Development Standards, Local Boards, Quality of Life, Scenic Resources, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
The Croton Visual Environment Advisory Board was developed to safeguard the beneficial effects of such existing natural and man-made features and structures and to prevent the harmful effects of potential unattractive or inappropriate projects and thus to promote and protect the economy, quality of life, and general welfare of the Village of Croton-on-Hudson. Chapter 60 of the Municipal Code creates an Advisory Board on the Visual Environment consisting of five members appointed by the Mayor. The Board shall serve in an advisory capacity to the..
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Town of Yorktown Clustering and Flexibility Standards Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016Clustering & Cluster Development
New York
Municipal
The purpose of this article is to encourage flexibility of design and development of land in such a manner as to promote the most appropriate use of land, to facilitate the adequate and economic provision of streets and utilities and to preserve the natural and scenic qualities of open land. ..
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Adaptive Reuse: Governor Cuomo’s New Plan to Re-Purpose Buildings
Date Added: Tuesday, August 24, 2021Affordable Housing
New York
Municipal
In New York City, office, commercial, and hotel spaces have been unused due to the pandemic, leaving many spaces vacant. Because NYC has experienced a shortage of affordable housing for years, Governor Cuomo proposed a plan to repurpose vacant commercial properties into affordable housing units. This
can help pandemic recovery proceed. Gov. Cuomo proposed a five-year period
where these spaces will be converted...
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Town of Warren Wind Energy Facilities Law
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Wind Energy
New York
Municipal
The Town of Warren adopted a “Wind Energy Facilities” law in 2005. The law establishes procedural requirements as well as requirements for sound and setbacks. Additionally, the legislation requires applicants to fund an interest bearing account, the funds of which will be used to decommission the facility. Wind facilities must be de-commissioned after 25 years...
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Village of Croton-on-Hudson Conservation Advisory Council Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, May 3, 2017Local Boards, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
The Village of Croton-on-Hudson is creating a Conservation Advisory Council in the fight to preserve and improve the quality of the natural and manmade environment of the Village in the face of population growth, urbanization, and technological change. The Conservation Advisory Council will serve to reinforce the environmental interests of the community by developing community programs to foster understanding of environmental issues, conducting studies to carry out their protective purposes, coordinating efforts of private groups, maintaining c..
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Village of Bronxville Controlled Development District Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, February 3, 2016Site Plan Approval, Subdivision Regulations, Zoning
New York
Municipal
In order to facilitate planned and controlled development in accordance with the Village Comprehensive Plan, the Village of Bronxville establishes Controlled Development Districts too allow for possible development on a scale and with a flexibility that could not otherwise be achieved in the Village’s present zoning districts. The newly established districts recognize that some developments require specialized consideration and treatment by providing for the establishment of separate and distinct substantive standards for planned and controlled..
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Dobbs Ferry, New York Energy Task Force
Date Added: Thursday, June 7, 2018Energy Efficiency & Conservation, Local Boards, Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Dobbs Ferry Energy Task Force helps the Village of Dobbs Ferry become more sustainable through energy efficiency and renewable energy initiatives; waste reduction and recycling; increased walking, bicycling, and transit use; and appropriate land use. The Task Force has:
• Obtained NYSERDA and NYPA grants to identify and implement energy efficiency and renewable energy projects and continues to seek funding opportunities for similar measures;
• Published the Village’s 2017 Climate Action Plan aimed at reducing the Village’s greenhouse gas ..
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Town of Yorktown Landmark Preservation Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, August 27, 2016Historic Preservation, Quality of Life
New York
Municipal
This enactment declares as a matter of public policy that the protection, enhancement and perpetuation of landmarks and historic districts are necessary to promote the economic, cultural, educational, and general welfare of the public. In response to this policy, the legislature created the Landmark Preservation Commission in Chapter 198 of the Town Code...
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Village of Briarcliff Manor Protection of Natural Resources Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, April 17, 2017Steep Slope Protection, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
§ 220-15 of the Municipal Code for The Village of Briarcliff Manor promulgates policy designed to protect the Village’s natural resources which include but are not limited to steep slopes, wetlands, forests, water bodies, exceptional or unique views and various unique, unusual or specific surface or subsurface factors pertaining to the soil. Special limitations are provided to protect the largest slopes as these shall not be developed or in any way physically modified, except when necessary for access, land or natural resources, preservation or..
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Town of Brighton Subdivision Regulations Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, April 18, 2017Environmental Compliance, Stormwater Management, Subdivision Regulations, Watershed Protection
New York
Municipal
The town of Brighton, New York, requires developers to create and submit a separate drainage report in the preliminary plat when applying for subdivision approval. The drainage report includes calculations for runoff and pipe and channel sizing, will clearly indicate the disposal and flood hazard preventions and how all runoff will be handled during grading and development operations, and erosion and sedimentation prevention measures. Further, the stormwater mitigation facilities shall be as specified in the Town of Brighton Minimum Specificati..
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Traffic Signals and Narrower Lanes to Improve Safety
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018Traffic Calming & Safety
New York
Municipal
Ossining, New York’s Comprehensive Plan includes traffic-calming measures to be implemented throughout the village, though particularly on Route 9. Route 9 is the primary north-south arterial reaching through Ossining and onto major highways in New York. Route 9’s increasingly congested condition has resulted in residential road use throughout the village. These residential roads are narrow, steep, and winding, and often dangerous during inclement weather. Ossining’s goal is to improve pedestrian safety and comfort, and to change the behavior o..
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Carbon Footprint Decrease
Date Added: Monday, June 4, 2018Climate Change Planning
New York
Municipal
Nassau County’s development through the 20th century gave rise to sprawling suburban developments that necessitated the automobile and extensive roadway development. Nassau’s County’s 2010 Master Plan projected expected land use expansion over the next few decades based on current land use trends and population growth to discover an unsustainable trajectory. If this growth is dispersed throughout the county consistent with current land use trends, it is expected that traffic congestion, energy consumption and carbon emissions will continue to g..
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Town of Brookhaven Agricultural Advisory Board Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, February 3, 2016Local Boards, Agriculture, Farmland Protection & Preservation
New York
Municipal
Brookhaven’s Agricultural Advisory Board ordinance allows for the creation of an 11-member advisory board. The board, comprised of local residents from the agricultural community and community-based organizations interested in land preservation and agriculture, makes recommendations to the town board about the implementation of an Agricultural Use Agreement Program and the use of agricultural easements as land use planning and preservation tools. ..
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Town of Pawling Timber Harvesting Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Timber Harvesting
New York
Municipal
This law seeks to protect natural resources from the adverse effects of timber harvesting such as erosion, sedimentation and drainage problems by requiring a permit for any tree clearing and timber harvesting activities. The law sets forth detailed requirements for permit application and review process where applicants must demonstrate compliance with performance standards...
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County of Rockland Proposed Resolution for Certification of Municipal Planning & Zoning Board Members
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017Local Boards, Mandatory Training, Zoning
New York
Municipal
This is a sample resolution provided by the Rockland Municipal Planning Federation for municipalities within the county to adopt. The resolution requires land use training of Planning Boards and Zoning Boards of Appeal...
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Town of Hyde Park Water Resources Protection Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Water Conservation, Watershed Protection, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
The Town of Hyde Park’s public policy is to preserve, protect, and conserve its water resources while simultaneously balancing the rights of individual property owners’ with the rights of the community. Unless otherwise exempted, the Hyde Park requires a permit for activities including, but not limited to, draining, dredging, septic tank installation, vegetation removal, or any activity that may pollute the Town’s water resources.
The Planning Board takes a number of factors into consideration when approving, approving with conditions, or..
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Town of Lewisboro Wetlands & Watercourses Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017Buffer Zones, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
The legislature’s intent in creating Chapter 217 of the Town Code is to assure that activities conducted in and around wetlands, watercourses and associated buffer areas be done so in conformance with the provisions of this chapter and in a manner which promotes the preservation of wetlands, watercourses and associated buffer areas as specified in the findings of fact seen at the beginning of the Chapter. ..
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Town of Cortlandt Aquifer Protection District
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017Aquifer Protection, Recreational Uses, Subdivision Approvals
New York
Municipal
Chapter 307 regulates the use of open space in Cortlandt. Among other things, the Town requires developers to set aside recreational land within a subdivision and leaves financial findings to the Town Board. ..
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Village of Briarcliff Elder Community District Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 6, 2017Affordable Housing , Senior Housing, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Eldercare Community District aims at the establishment of a for-profit residential development for the elderly, designed to achieve compatibility with their surroundings and to encourage orderly and well-planned development. The eldercare communities, while not requiring many schools or municipal services or facilities, are capable of bolstering the economy and will encourage more tranquil communities since vehicular movement is minimal. Lots shall be zoned to meet the interests of the elderly and such communities will need certain protecti..
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Town of Blooming Grove Golf & Country Club Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, March 23, 2017Accessory Uses , Environmental Compliance, Pesticide Management, Transportation & Land Use Planning, Zoning, Drinking Water Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
In 235-25 of the Town Code for the Town of Blooming Grove, the town creates the Golf and Country Club ordinance which sets forth supplementary requirements pertaining to bulk controls, site requirements, parking requirements, buffers, existing buildings, nuisance, clearance of woodlands, turf management and water quality assurances. The ordinance also requires approval by the Town Board for special events and permitted accessory uses...
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Town of Ithaca Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning; Subdivision Regulations
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Subdivision Regulations, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Town of Ithaca has enacted a section on Solar Access within its chapter on the subdivision of land. The section is a short one, but vests power to the Planning Board to require a subdivision to be platted “so as to preserve or enhance solar access for either passive or active systems.” The Planning Board may also mandate site plan modifications if it determines that the solar orientation of the development needs improvement.
The Town of Ithaca has also included a section solely on solar collectors and installation within its Zoning Chap..
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County of Westchester Non-Profit Housing Providers List
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016Affordable Housing
New York
Municipal
A list of non-profit housing providers, along with their contact information, in Westchester County, NY...
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Promoting Farmers Markets
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018Healthy Communities, Farmers Markets
New York
Municipal
Kinderhook specifically permits farmer’s markets (farm markets) in two thirds of its zoning districts, promoting both farm operations and tourism. They define farm markets as permanent structures that primarily sell agricultural products and related goods to the general public. Additionally, the farm markets can either sell pre-harvested goods, or allow customers to pick their own products. The town also permits seasonal farm stands in four of its zoning districts with fewer requirements...
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New York City's Racial Equity Reports Int. No. 1572-B
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021Equity
New York
Municipal
This legislation calls for the development of an equitable development data tool that will contain citywide, boroughwide, community district, and neighborhood-level data in New York City. The tool will be available online for public use and will contain data on demographic conditions, economic security, neighborhood quality of life and access to opportunity, housing security/affordability/quality and housing production. The data tool will also include a Displacement Risk Index. Data is disaggregated by race and ethnicity. The tool must be avail..
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Village of Croton-on-Hudson Unified Solar Application; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Saturday, January 6, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Village of Croton-on-Hudson adopted the NY-Sun Unified Solar Permit (USP), a combined building and electrical permit for certain solar energy systems developed by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), the New York Power Authority (NYPA), and the City University of New York’s Sustainable CUNY. The USP expedites the permitting process for “small-scale solar electric systems,” that have a rated capacity of 12 kW or less and that are installed on a permitted roof structure of a building, or on a legal accessory..
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State of New York General Municipal Law Tree Conservation Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Landscaping, Right-to-Farm, Tree Preservation & Protection
New York
State
This law empowers local legislative bodies of any county, city, town or village in New York State to provide for the protection and conservation of tress and related vegetation. This power is granted on top of any other land use and zoning powers these municipalities may have. ..
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New York State Statutes that Provide for the Protection of Agricultural Lands
Date Added: Wednesday, December 2, 2015Agriculture, Farmland Protection & Preservation
New York
State
Michael Morea’s article reviews different New York State statutes and different methods that can be implemented to preserve farmland and still allow development. The author concludes that New York State is trying to carry out its Constitutional policy of preserving farmland, but that the statutes are largely separated and it is difficult for the municipality to create a effective policy. Some of the statutes that the author discovered provide tax breaks and financial incentives for the creation of easements restricting the land to agricultural ..
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Town of Babylon Green Building Certification Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, August 27, 2016Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency
New York
Municipal
The Town of Babylon is located on Long Island, New York, with a population of approximately 211,792 people. The Town has a population density of 4,050 people per square mile, and a per capita income of $22,844. Babylon has a total area of 114.2 square miles, and about 54% of the Town’s total area is water. Babylon is home to beaches and several state parks.
The Town of Babylon was the first town on Long Island to adopt Energy Star standards for new homes, but the Town of Babylon did not stop there. Under its Green Building Certification l..
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City of New York Floor Area Bonus for Subway Station Improvements
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Incentive Zoning, Site Design Standards, Transportation & Land Use Planning
New York
Municipal
The City of New York created incentive zoning in 1961 to acquire available open space in densely packed commercial or business districts. Article VII, Chapter 4 in the New York City Zoning Resolution grants floor area bonus by special permit for improving subway station...
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New York State General City Law: § 21 Public or Municipal Purpose & General Welfare Defined
Date Added: Thursday, March 2, 2017Local Boards, Local Governance
New York
State
This law sets forth the definitions for “public or municipal purpose” and “general welfare.” ..
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Town of Brookhaven Farmland Bill of Rights
Date Added: Wednesday, February 10, 2016Farmland Protection & Preservation
New York
Municipal
Under the Town of Brookhaven’s Farmland Bill of Rights, Town bodies or officials that have land use or development responsibilities must notify applicants of proposed development projects of the existence of a protected farming operation within 1,000 feet of the development’s boundaries. The ordinance establishes that the benefits of bona fide agricultural production, both to the residents of the community as well as to the local government, outweigh the nuisances associated with farming operations. The ordinance defines the agricultural produc..
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Village of Briarcliff Manor Tree Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, April 17, 2017Environmental Compliance, Landscaping, Tree Preservation & Protection, Timber Harvesting
New York
Municipal
The Code of Briarcliff Manor Tree Ordinance sets out a well-defined tree-based protection plan consistent with the unique character of the Village which derives great benefit from the maintenance of the tree population. Tree removal is regulated based on the needs and desires of the community in both the public and private sector and local planning boards are developed as approving authorities in order to ensure compliance with the overall plan. ..
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New York State General City Law: Article 2-A. Powers of Cities; § 19 General Grant of Powers
Date Added: Thursday, March 2, 2017Local Boards, Local Governance
New York
State
According to this New York State law, every city is granted the power to regulate, manage and control its property and local affairs...
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City of White Plains Environmentally Sensitive Sites & Features Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, April 16, 2017Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
To protect environmentally sensitive features, including watercourses, wetlands, and flora and fauna habitat, this ordinance regulates any area in the proximity of these environmentally sensitive ordinances. Requirements are based on proximity to environmentally sensitive areas. ..
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Town of Grand Island, New York Code § 407-165.1(D)- Solar collectors and installations for minor systems
Date Added: Thursday, June 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Town of Grand Island, New York allows roof-mounted systems if the distance between the roof and the highest edge of the system is in accordance with the New York State Uniform Fire Prevention and Building Code, and the building-mounted solar collector shall not obstruct solar access to adjacent properties. Ground-mounted solar energy systems shall not exceed the height restrictions of the zones they are located in when oriented at maximum tilt. ..
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Town of Brookhaven Historic Preservation District
Date Added: Friday, April 28, 2017Comprehensive Planning, Historic District Preservation, Local Boards
New York
Municipal
This law empowers the Town Planning Board to create a Historic Preservation District in the Town of Brookhaven. The law also includes provisions for: creating the Historic District Advisory Committee, the possible exclusion of religious institutions from the district, the maintenance and taxation requirements for structures within the district, and the penalties for disobeying the requirements of the law for persons owning buildings within the district. ..
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Village of Tarrytown, Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Regulation
Date Added: Friday, June 23, 2023Accessory Uses
New York
Municipal
The Village of Tarrytown accessory dwelling unit (ADU) regulation allows for one ADU per single-family lot (upon approval). The Building Department decides if an ADU is approved and only when there is a need for construction is site plan approval by the Planning Board or Architectural Review Board needed. There is a six-month minimum lease requirement for renting out an ADU. The ADU must be a minimum of 300 square feet and a maximum of 1,000 square feet or 50% of the total floor plan of the primary residence. Additionally, the regulation includ..
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Town of Babylon Structures Over Water Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, March 23, 2017Coastal Protection, Site Plan Approval, Zoning, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
Chapter 213, Article XXXII, allows building permits to be given for structures erected over water (which are usually banned under the zoning laws) if two criteria are met. Those criteria are: that the town board must find that (1) No discharges of pollutants or other activities of any kind deleterious to surrounding wetland and surface water shall be permitted to occur on the site, and (2) there shall be provision made for the safe collection and disposal of waste. ..
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Town of New Windsor Stormwater Management & Stormwater Pollution Prevention
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Local Environmental Law, Stormwater Management, Watershed Protection
New York
Municipal
This law adopts minimally acceptable stormwater management standards which must be met for subdivisions, site plans, and construction projects which impact more than one acre of property within the bounds of the Town. ..
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Town of Brookhaven Supplementary Zoning Provisions Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017Local Boards, Agriculture, Farmland Protection & Preservation
New York
Municipal
This ordinance creates the Agricultural Advisory Board. ..
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New York State Constitution Article on Conservation
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017State Land Use Law, Tree Preservation & Protection, Transportation & Land Use Planning, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Conservation Districts & Subdivisions
New York
State
The New York Constitution, Article 14, establishes that it is a function of the state government to provide for the protection of forested lands, but provides exceptions for the development of certain highways. This provision also designates provisions whereby these lands may be used on a limited scale for construction and maintenance of reservoirs and establishes how violations of this provision shall be handled...
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Village of Irvington Environmental Conservation Board Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 12, 2017Local Boards, Local Environmental Law, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
The Environmental Conservation Board section of the Irvington Code establishes the Irvington Environmental Conservation Board (ECB), which consists of up to nine members appointed by the Village Board to serve for terms of two years, two members of which may be selected from the sixteen to twenty-one year old age group. The ECB will work to increase resources and public programs concerning the preservation, development and use of the natural resources, features, and conditions of the Village of Irvington insofar as beauty, quality, biologic int..
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Town of Babylon Coastal Erosion Hazard Zone Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, October 21, 2015Coastal Protection, Erosion & Sedimentation Control
New York
Municipal
This ordinance establishes standards and procedures for minimizing damage to structures and to protect natural resources from coastal erosion. It employs the NYSDEC’s coastal erosion area delineation, and specifies separate definitions and restrictions for nearshore, beach, and dune areas. Special consideration is given to the protection of bird nesting and breeding areas, and other special wildlife habitat as identified by the NYSDEC. The local law goes beyond state guidelines by prohibiting development in nearshore and beach areas...
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Recreation Marketing
Date Added: Monday, June 4, 2018Healthy Communities, Parks & Recreation, Equity
New York
Municipal
Chenango County has set goals relating to the health of their community as well as increasing the use of their outdoor recreation facilities. To ensure the health of all their residents, the county will assess the health needs of all residents. The data collected from the assessment will be used to support existing programs and identify gaps in service that can be filled.
The county also plans to heavily market their outdoor recreation opportunities to encourage the use by all residents with a specific focus on targeting the youth group. Hop..
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Recommended Model Development Principles for Protection Natural Resources - Hudson River Estuary
Date Added: Wednesday, December 2, 2015Development Standards
New York
Municipal
This document presents specific recommendations on how to foster more environmentally sensitive local site design within the Town of Clinton, NY. The purpose of the project is to review existing development codes and identify regulatory barriers to environmentally sensitive residential and commercial development at the site level within the bounds of the Wappinger Creek Watershed. Code modifications and recommendations were crafted to provide flexibility, support, and guidance for developers implementing Better Site Design. This document focuse..
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Sustainable Development Checklist
Date Added: Monday, June 4, 2018Climate Change Planning
New York
Municipal
Kingston’s Comprehensive Plan provides a sustainable development checklist that is to be used for applicants seeking City funding. Each applicant must fill out the checklist and achieve a minimum score to receive funding. The goal of the checklist procedure is to fund more sustainable projects that reduce energy consumption, CO2 emissions, water consumption, waste generation, and stormwater runoff.
An increase in the number of sustainable projects that create reduced CO2 emissions and waste generation will inherently benefit the public healt..
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Town of Gardiner Subdivision of Land Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Subdivision Approvals
New York
Municipal
The Subdivision of Land ordinance in Chapter 188 of the Town Code for the Town of Gardiner charges the Planning Board with approval of all subdivisions and parcels within the Town. The code gives a full description of the transfer and uses of the land within subdivisions. The ordinance also imposes penalties for violations of the subdivision rules. ..
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New York State Site Plan Review Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Site Plan Approval
New York
State
This law authorizes cities in New York State to undertake the process of Site Plan Review. The law sets forth criteria which city zoning boards may use when doing Site Plan Review, such as: parking, means of access, screening, signs, landscaping, architectural features, location and dimensions of buildings, adjacent land uses and physical features meant to protect adjacent land uses as well as any additional elements specified by the legislative body in such zoning ordinance or local law. The law also discusses other features of Site Plan Rev..
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City of New York Executive Order 230 & Executive Order 233
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016Flood Prevention, Floodplain Regulations, Floodwater Management, Post-Disaster Management
New York
Municipal
Following Executive Order 225 (extending the State of Emergency caused by Hurricane Sandy) and the release of FEMA’s new advisory base flood elevation maps for areas impacted by Sandy (containing the most up-to-date information on flood hazard zones and necessary buildings heights to prevent flood damage) New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg issued Executive Order 230. Executive Order 230 suspends height limits and other restrictions for new construction and reconstruction in areas devastated by Hurricane Sandy. Additionally, as part of the re..
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Village of Bronxville Site Design Standards Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 12, 2017Site Design Standards
New York
Municipal
The Village of Bronxville created site plan and approval standards for use by the Design Review Committee and the Planning Board in reviewing applications for development. These standards include regulations for: landscape and environment; relationship of structures and open space; circulation and parking; protection of neighbors; compliance with other laws and regulations; surface water drainage; and applications for accessory uses...
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Guilderland Town Code - Alternative Dispute Resolution Provision
Date Added: Wednesday, February 24, 2016Alternative Dispute Resolution
New York
Municipal
The mediation of all disputes is authorized, including disputes with the town boards (i.e. the Planning Board). The statute was enacted in the interest of increasing non-adversarial resolution of disputes in the town. The mediation is voluntary, but is encouraged and can be requested by the justice presiding over the matter. ..
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State of New York Long Island Pine Barrens Maritime Reserve Act
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Comprehensive Planning, Land Use Planning, Local Boards, Scenic Resources, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
State
This law creates the Long Island Pine Barren Maritime Reserve in Suffolk County, New York, in order to protect and preserve this area’s natural resources and scenic beauty. The law also sets forth the following: duties of the Long Island Pine Barrens maritime reserve council, a comprehensive management plan for the area, the duties of the Central Pine Barrens joint planning and policy commission, and a comprehensive land use plan for the area. ..
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State of New York Coastal Erosion Hazard Areas Act
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Coastal Protection, Erosion & Sedimentation Control
New York
State
The purpose of this statute is to prevent coastal erosion from destroying natural resources, property, and human life. This statute states causes of erosion and presents policies to address erosion. The main focus is on the identification of coastal erosion hazard areas and the creation and implementation of local laws to address the problems in such areas. The state commissioner in consultation with local governments must identify hazard areas in the state and then hold public hearings before the final identifications are made. The commissi..
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Town of Bedford, Accessory Apartment Regulation
Date Added: Wednesday, August 16, 2023Accessory Uses
New York
Municipal
The Town of Bedford is part of the Plus One ADU Program. Currently, Bedford allows up to one accessory dwelling unit (ADU) per home in all single-family residential zones, upon approval of application by the Planning Board. Accessory cottages are not permitted; ADUs must be attached to the main dwelling unless in districts R-2A or R-4A. No permit shall be granted until 5 years after the construction of the entire structure including accessory structures. Permits are valid for 5 years. The accessory apartment cannot be more than 25% of the floo..
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Multi-Family Dwelling District
Date Added: Sunday, June 3, 2018Transportation Efficient Development, Healthy Communities
New York
Municipal
The City of Beacon plans to create a new community center for youth and seniors in or next to the central business district. The City encourages the police department to be involved in the planning and implementation of some of the youth planning through community policing. The goal is to create new opportunities for community development and for the youth and seniors to partake in activities to lead active and healthy lifestyles. The program also helps form a positive image of police officers in the community, which helps create stronger relat..
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State of New York Local Leaders Guide to Comprehensive Planning
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016Comprehensive Planning
New York
State
This instructional paper gives local leaders an overview of ways in which to implement comprehensive planning in their communities. The paper covers such topics as: a definition of comprehensive planning, the purpose of developing a comprehensive plan, how and when to implement the plan, the authority under which communities are able to implement the plan, and a description of what limitations and concerns may come up. ..
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Village of Croton-on-Hudson Multiple Development Use District
Date Added: Wednesday, May 3, 2017Comprehensive Planning, Development Standards, Historic Preservation, Mixed/Multiple Use, Open Space Preservation, Scenic Resources, Site Design Standards, Site Plan Approval
New York
Municipal
This law creates guidelines for creating a multiple/mixed use district in the Village of Croton-on-Hudson. The law includes information such as: eligibility requirements, general conditions, permitted uses, site development standards, procedures for MDU designation and approval of site development plans, lapse of approval of site development plan, performance guaranty, phasing of development, amendment of site development plan, and revocation of MDU designation. ..
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Town of North Castle Erosion and Sediment Control Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016Erosion & Sedimentation Control
New York
Municipal
Through Chapter 101 of the Town Code for the Town of North Castle, the Town Board declares that the purpose of this law is to safeguard persons, protect property, prevent damage to the environment and promote the public welfare by guiding, regulating and controlling the design, construction, use and maintenance of any development or other activity which disturbs or breaks the topsoil or results in the movement of earth on land situated in the town. ..
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Model Small-Scale Solar Siting Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, June 18, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
N/A
Columbia Law School’s Center for Climate Change Law developed the Model Small-Scale Solar Siting Ordinance, which includes several helpful solar energy system definitions. The model ordinance defines building-integrated photovoltaic (BIPV) systems as those that integrate photovoltaic modules into the building structure, such as the roof or fac¸ade, but which do not alter roof relief. The model defines freestanding or ground-mounted solar energy systems as those directly installed in the ground and not attached or affixed to an existing structur..
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Town of Penfield Environmental Protection Overlay District
Date Added: Thursday, May 4, 2017Floodplain Regulations, Local Environmental Law, Overlay District
New York
Municipal
This ordinance is an alternative method of protection that provides for review and regulation of development in floodplains through an overlay district that specifies uses and activities which are strictly prohibited or permitted upon compliance with additional regulations. If the use or activity is regulated, a permit must be obtained and mitigation is often a condition when the use or activity will have an adverse impact on the floodplains and where no reasonably feasible alternative exists...
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Village of Dobbs Ferry, Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) Regulation
Date Added: Tuesday, June 20, 2023Accessory Uses
New York
Municipal
The Village of Dobbs Ferry is part of the Plus One ADU Program. Dobbs Ferry regulation allows 50 total special permits for accessory dwelling units (ADUs) Village-wide. Before a building permit is granted, the applicant must get approval from the Westchester County Department of Health on proposed water supply and sewage disposal methods. No exterior changes should be made to the building (unless needed to meet NYS Uniform Code) that alters the appearance and character of the single-family neighborhood. The ADU has a 300-square-foot minimum and..
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Town of Bethlehem, New York Code § 128-67.2 – Solar photovoltaic (PV) systems.
Date Added: Monday, June 18, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
§ 128-67.2 of the Town of Bethlehem, New York’s Code specifies zoning requirements for various types of solar collector units in different zoning districts within the City. For a building-mounted system, solar panels shall be set back no less than 3' from the edge of the roof to allow for fire access and ventilation. On sloped roofs, this requirement does not apply along that portion of the bottom edge located more than 3' from a side edge. Small-scale ground-mounted systems shall be permitted in a required minimum side yard or rear yard setbac..
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Town of North Salem Freshwater Wetlands Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Scenic Resources, Stormwater Management, Wildlife & Fish Habitat, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Drinking Water Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
This law states the Town Board’s rationale for protecting wetlands within the Town of North Castle, NY. Some of the stated reasons include: the import role the wetlands have in cleaning the water supply, their function as a habitat for plant, fish and wildlife species, their role in absorbing stormwater, and their importance as a scenic resource. ..
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Town of Perinton Limited Development District Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, May 23, 2017Conservation Districts & Subdivisions
New York
Municipal
Town of Perinton created Limited Development Districts for certain variations in terrain, hydrology that render certain areas susceptible to flooding to supersede the other zoning provisions. Development must be directed by the intrinsic character of the land in order to provide for the safety and welfare of the citizens and the natural environment. The limits of an LDD shall be determined by its soil, vegetation, terrain, and hydrologic characteristics. The limits are determined using detailed maps, in consultation with the Conservation Board...
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Town of Mamaroneck Waterfront Revitalization Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017Waterfront Revitalization
New York
Municipal
Chapter 234 of the Town Code for the Town of Mamaroneck is intended to provide a framework for agencies of Mamaroneck to consider the policies and purposes contained in the Local Waterfront Revitalization Program when reviewing applications for actions and to assure to the maximum extent practicable that such actions are consistent with said policies and purposes. ..
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Town of Gardiner Development in Floodplains Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Development Standards, Floodplain Regulations, Historic Preservation
New York
Municipal
Town of Gardiner NY Development of Floodplains section 220-18, regulates development in the floodplains of Gardiner. Section 220-18(D) establishes conditions in which variances may be issued to include: reconstruction or restoration of structures listed in the National Registry of Historic Places, for good cause, and for showing that substantial hardships will result without the variance. Conditions that will be taken into account when the Zoning Board of Appeals reviews appeals are also included in this section...
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Town of Geneseo Municipal Code, Chapter 54 Erosion and Sediment Control
Date Added: Tuesday, May 23, 2017Erosion & Sedimentation Control
New York
Municipal
This chapter guides and regulates the design, construction, and maintenance of any development or activity which disturbs the topsoil or results in the movement of earth on land in order to promote the public welfare and safeguard persons, protect property, and prevent damage to the environment, including Conesus Lake and all bodies of water or watercourses in the Town of Geneseo. Performance standards include retaining existing vegetation and constructing sediment control measures prior to beginning any land disturbance activities, with all ru..
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Town of Brookhaven Tree Preservation Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017Site Design Standards, Tree Preservation & Protection, Subdivision Approvals, Timber Harvesting, Wildlife & Fish Habitat, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
Chapter 70 of the Town Code for the Town of Brookhaven regulates the destruction and removal of trees within the town. Permission must be obtained from the town before a tree can be removed from property which is zoned for commercial or industrial use or which is larger than two acres. Permission must also be obtained for acts that will cause a tree to die on such property. When determining the size of the property, contiguous parcels of property that are subject to common ownership are deemed merged. There are however, certain exemptions. ..
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New York State Coastal Erosion Hazard Areas Act
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Coastal Protection, Development Standards, Erosion & Sedimentation Control, State Land Use Law, Wildlife & Fish Habitat, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
State
The statute calls for the identification and mapping of coastal erosion hazard areas within the state by the commissioner of the state Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) and for local governments to formulate an erosion hazard area ordinance or local law, to be reviewed by the commissioner. The commissioner also adopts regulations establishing minimum standards for development in erosion hazard areas. Any person wishing to undertake development in an erosion hazard area must obtain a permit from the DEC...
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Adaptive Reuse: Governor Cuomo’s New Plan to Re-Purpose Buildings
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021Affordable Housing , Vacant & Distressed Properties
New York
Municipal
In New York City, office, commercial, and hotel spaces have been unused due to the pandemic, leaving many spaces vacant. Because NYC has experienced a shortage of affordable housing for years, Governor Cuomo proposed a plan to repurpose vacant commercial properties into affordable housing units. This can help pandemic recovery proceed. Gov. Cuomo proposed a five-year period where these spaces will be converted. ..
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North Salem (NY), Chapter 250, Article XIII Conditional Use and Special Permit Standards, Section 250-66
Date Added: Tuesday, May 23, 2017Land Use Planning, Zoning, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
The Town of North Salem enacted this section to prescribe certain requirements for public utilities. The use for the public utility must be necessary from the public standpoint. The installations shall be covered with landscaping, paintings, or fencing so that the area remains harmonious with the landscape...
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Village of Bronxville Planning Board Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 12, 2017Local Boards
New York
Municipal
The Village of Bronxville established a planning board to prepare a Village Comprehensive Plan and to review and either approve or disapprove of site plans and subdivisions. This law provides the terms, vacancies, compensation and disqualification of planning board members and gives specific powers to the planning board...
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New York State Municipal Home Rule Law – General Powers of Local Governments to Adopt & Amend Local Laws; Restrictions
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017Land Acquisition, Local Boards, Local Governance, Transportation & Land Use Planning, Street & Sidewalk Development
New York
State
Municipal Home Rule Law Chapter 36-A Article 2 Section 10 articulates the powers of local county, city, town, or village governments to include: acquisition and care of highways, roads, streets, avenues, and property; acquisition of transit facilities; collection, fixing, and administration of local government rentals, charges, rates or fees; and regulation or licensing of businesses and occupations. Section 11 outlines the restriction of powers of local county, city, town, or village governments to adopt local laws, including: the regulation o..
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State of New York Waterfront Revitalization of Coastal Areas & Waterways Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Coastal Protection, Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Economic Development, Waterfront Revitalization
New York
State
The Waterfront Revitalization of Coastal Areas and Waterways Law (Article 42) recognizes that the social and economic well being and general welfare of the people are dependent on the preservation, enhancement, protection, development and use of the natural and man-made resources of the state’s coastal area and inland waterways, including lakes, rivers, canals, as well as islands, wetlands, beaches, dunes, barrier islands, cliffs, bluffs and erosion prone area. The secretary will have the power and duties to oversee that coordinated and compre..
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Town of North Castle Tree Preservation Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017Open Space Preservation, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
The Town of North Castle finds and declares that the preservation of trees as defined below is necessary to protect the quality of life in the Town of North Castle because trees provide shade, impede soil erosion, aid water absorption and retention, inhibit excess runoff and flooding, and enhance the community in various other ways. ..
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Town of New Paltz Steep Slope Protection Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Flood Prevention, Scenic Resources, Steep Slope Protection, Wildlife & Fish Habitat, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
This law is designed to protect the physical and aesthetic integrity of steep sloping topographic features in the Town of New Paltz. To this end, the law places restrictions on the construction methods used by builders in sensitive areas, and creates a permit process one must go through to get approval to build. ..
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Town of Brookhaven Stormwater Drainage System Plan
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017Stormwater Management, Subdivision Regulations, Watershed Protection
New York
Municipal
The Town of Brookhaven requires that all preliminary stormwater drainage system plans show storm drains and structures, capacity of stormwater recharge basins and watershed outlines with their approximate area...
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City of Auburn & Town of Owasco Public Water Supply Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, March 23, 2017Drinking Water Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
These rules and regulations apply to the protection of Owasco Lake and its tributaries, which are a source of the public water supply for both Auburn and Owasco. They require materials harmful to the public water supply, which include agricultural waste, sewage, pollutants, herbicides, and pesticides, to be a certain distance away from the lake and its tributaries. The rules and regulations also require regular inspections of the lake and its tributaries to ensure there are no violations of the public water supply boundary requirements...
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City of Jamestown Freshwater Wetlands Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Land Use Planning, Site Plan Approval, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
This law is aimed at preserving and reclaiming wetlands, by creating a permit system, for persons who seek to conduct, or who are conducting, any activity on a freshwater wetland. ..
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County of Rockland Green Building Standards
Date Added: Saturday, August 27, 2016Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency
New York
Municipal
Rockland County, New York, is a suburban county on the coast of the Hudson River, located about 12 miles north of New York City. Rockland is one of 24 municipalities in New York State to be designated as a Preserve America Community under the federal government’s Preserve America Program which is administered by the National Park Service and allocates federal grant money in order to preserve the country’s natural, historic, and cultural resources. Rockland has many lakes, wetlands, and designated park areas, and the county is promoting green ..
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Village of Mastic Beach Solar Energy Systems Regulations § 415-2; Solar Zoning; Architectural Review
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Village of Mastic Beach's Code § 415-2 regulates accessory solar energy systems and exempts systems that meet the regulation’s standards from architectural review board approval. These regulations include the requirements that (1) roof-mounted solar systems do not extend beyond the exterior perimeter of the building where the system is located and (2) ground-mounted solar energy systems not extend into the required rear yard accessory setback when oriented at minimum design tilt. Additionally, system design must make best efforts to blend i..
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City of Kingston Complete Streets Policy Framework
Date Added: Thursday, June 21, 2018Healthy Communities, Complete Streets
New York
Municipal
The City of Kingston Complete Streets Policy Frameworks, adopted 11/9/2010, details Kingston’s Complete Streets policies. This policy reflects that the City of Kingston encourages walking, bicycling, and public transit for transportation, health, fitness, and recreation. This document also identifies that the City has a goal to develop a Complete Streets program, initiated by a Complete Streets Advisory Council, which is established by this document. The intent of this policy is to recognize pedestrians, bicyclists, transit riders, and people w..
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Village of Croton-on-Hudson Water Supply Protection Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, May 3, 2017Coastal Protection, Development Standards, Site Plan Approval, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Water Supply Protection Code of the Village of Croton-on-Hudson dictates that each Waterfront Development District shall be comprised of 10 or more contiguous acres of dry land under single ownership and shall have a minimum of 1,000 feet of shoreline along the Hudson River. Permitted uses include specific recreational, residential, and special permit uses, but accessory uses are limited to those uses that are customarily incidental to the permitted uses. It additionally provides the requirements regarding enclosure, landscaping, bulk, heig..
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New York State Town Law Subdivision Review; Approval of Plats; Development of Filed Plats
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Site Plan Approval
New York
State
This law authorizes town planning boards to approve preliminary and final plats of subdivisions showing lots, blocks or sites, with or without streets or highways, within parts of towns that are outside the limits of any incorporated villages. Covered topics include: authorization for review of previously filed plats, filing of certificate, definitions, approval of preliminary plats, approval of final plats, approval and certification of final plats, default approval of preliminary or final plat, filing of decision on final plat, notice to coun..
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Town of Greenburgh Conservation District Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Development Standards, Overlay District, Zoning, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
The purpose of this law is to provide performance criteria assuring conservation of natural resources during and after development in a conservation district (CD). The CD is to be an overlay zone over any other zone allowed in the town. The Conservation District will be evaluated by criteria set out under this provision including the development standards. ..
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The Town of Islip Word Usage and Definitions for Zoning Requirements
Date Added: Tuesday, May 23, 2017Development Standards, Local Governance, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Town of Islip set out the word usages and definitions to be used in their zoning requirements. All accessory buildings must be restricted to one story in height. Building height is determined by looking at the vertical distance from the average grade of the ground at the base of the structure to the highest point of roof, excluding chimneys, spires, and other permitted projections. For any single-family homes in a special flood hazard area, the building height shall be measured from the average grade of the ground at the base of the structu..
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Model Ordinance for Solar Photovoltaic Systems
Date Added: Thursday, March 29, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
In order to ensure that solar resources are developed in a way that protects the environment and preserves community character, the Central New York Regional Planning and Development Board (RPDB) created a model zoning ordinance as part of it’s work to help get Central New York “Solar Ready.” The model zoning ordinance was developed to assist local governments to address land use concerns and to provide clear guidance and direction to developers and property owners for the appropriate development of solar energy systems...
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Town of Brookhaven Training for Local Boards Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017Local Boards, Mandatory Training
New York
Municipal
The Town of Brookhaven created this local law to mandate certified educational training for all Zoning Board of Appeals and Planning Board members and to require notification of such a requirement to prospective members. Procedure is also given for removal of members if in violation of this law...
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Town of Gardiner Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 13, 2016Flood Prevention
New York
Municipal
Town of Gardiner NY Flood Damage Prevention ordinance (Chapter 121) is an attempt to minimize private and public loss due to flood conditions by controlling alterations in floodplains, regulating the construction of barriers in floodplains, regulating floodplain usages which may be dangerous to citizens and the environment, and controlling areas that are likely to be affected by floods and erosion. The code provides objectives to ensure that people who occupy flood lands are responsible for their actions and works to minimize public expenditure..
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Town of Brighton Stormwater Management Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, April 18, 2017Stormwater Management, Watershed Protection
New York
Municipal
This ordinance is intended to allow for the redesign of the drainage system in order to protect the residents from the dangers of stormwater runoff. There are requirements for where the drain patterns may lie and a hydraulic design will be used for the watershed. There are also provisions on how to improve the previous damages from stormwater runoff. ..
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New York State Town Law – Zoning Board of Appeals
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Local Boards, Zoning
New York
State
This section of the New York State Town Law empowers town boards to form a zoning board of appeals composed of three to five members. Furthermore, it establishes the procedure for appointment and removal of members, the length of terms for the members, and the duties of the chairperson...
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City of Newburgh Environmental Constraints Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Environmental Compliance, Local Environmental Law, Steep Slope Protection, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
This law limits the areas within the City of Newburgh, NY in which construction can take place, as a means of protecting environmentally sensitive areas. Particularly, this law places restrictions on construction in wetland and watercourse areas, as well as steep slope areas. ..
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Environmental Conservation Commission
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018Open Space Preservation
New York
Municipal
The village of Ardsley, New York adopted an Environmental Conservation Commission to help preserve and improve the quality of the natural and man-made environments within the community. The commission advises the Village Board of Trustees on features and conditions of the village insofar as beauty, quality, biologic integrity and other environmental factors are concerned and, in the case of man's activities and developments with regard to any major threats posed to environmental quality, so as to enhance the long-range value of the environment ..
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City of Amsterdam Development near Streams, Rivers & Wetlands Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, March 23, 2017Site Plan Approval, Zoning, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
Law requiring that any development near streams, rivers, and wetlands receive a special use permit and approval from the zoning board. ..
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Town of Brookhaven Wetlands & Waterways Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017Development Standards, Site Design Standards, Site Plan Approval, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
The purpose of Chapter 81 of the Town Code, for the Town of Brookhaven is to protect surface waters, lands underwater and wetlands since they are important natural resources to the town. This statute applies to all lands defined as wetlands or waterways, to any activity in an adjacent area of a wetland or waterway, or to any activity that has the potential to adversely impact wetlands or waterways. No person shall conduct any regulated activity within such lands without obtaining permission from the town. Regulated activity includes dredging..
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Town of Malta Environmental Board Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017Local Boards, Local Environmental Law, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
The legislature’s intent in drafting Chapter 8 of the Town Code for the Town of Malta is to preserve and improve the quality of the natural and man-made environment within the Town. This has become more challenging in the face of population growth, urbanization, and technological change and its effect on the environment all of which impact the health, welfare and economic well-being of present and future inhabitants of the Town. Chapter 8 creates an Environmental Board which is charged with seeing that these goals are pursued. ..
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Village of Croton-on-Hudson Telecommunications Towers Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017Communications, Site Design Standards
New York
Municipal
The Village of Croton-on-Hudson seeks to establish predictable and balanced regulations for the sitting and screening of various personnel wireless service antennas, towers, and accessory structures in order to accommodate the growth of such systems within the Village, while protecting the public against any adverse impacts on resources, avoiding the potential damage to adjacent properties for tower failure through structural standards and setback requirements, and reducing the number of towers needed to serve the community by maximizing the us..
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Town of Malta Open Space Development & Preservation Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017Affordable Housing , Clustering & Cluster Development, Open Space Preservation
New York
Municipal
This law was created for the purpose of requiring open space development for any subdivision of land 20 acres or greater within the Town of Malta. The goal of the law is to promote the better use of open spaces, recreational development, existing topography and natural features, design, and to provide for economics inherent with open space development. This law empowers the Planning Board of the Town of Malta, acting in a manner which would promote the above goals, to approve, approve with modifications or disapprove open space development pr..
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Village of Briarcliff Manor Conservation Development Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 6, 2017Open Space Preservation, Scenic Resources, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Conservation Districts & Subdivisions
New York
Municipal
This law is designed to protect environmentally sensitive undeveloped areas, within the Village of Briarcliff Manor, from harmful development practices. To this end, the Board of Trustees authorizes the village Planning Board to approve conservation subdivisions, according to procedures outlined in the law. ..
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County of Westchester, Model Ordinance: Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)
Date Added: Thursday, June 15, 2023Accessory Uses
New York
Municipal
The County of Westchester Model Ordinance for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) is a guide for other municipalities in the county to adopt (in part or in whole) to promote and regulate ADUs. The goal of ADUs in the area is to increase the housing stock efficiently, increase affordability, and provide smaller and more accessible housing options. The model includes ADU requirements such as eligibility, number of ADUs permitted, occupancy and use, creation, density, approval, application feeds and information, and design. Design requirements vary ba..
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Town of Clifton Park Pesticides - Aerial Spraying Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, February 10, 2016Environmental Compliance
New York
Municipal
This law creates an application procedure for residents and commercial entities who wish to engage in the use of pesticides, bans the use of pesticides in certain areas, and describes penalties for violating the law. The Town derives its power to enact this law pursuant to its municipal home rule authority...
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The town of Skaneateles Nonconforming Uses, Structures and Lots Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, May 23, 2017Development Standards, Mixed/Multiple Use, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The town of Skaneateles created rules that apply to nonconforming uses, structures, and lots. Existing nonconforming lots with impermeable surface coverage may be redeveloped by a special permit. The impermeable surface area must be reduced to the maximum extent possible to minimize the impact on streams, lakes, and groundwater. Measures to reduce the impermeable surface includes infiltration trenches, vegetated streams, and lake buffers. If the lot is within the Skaneateles Lake Watershed, the Planning Board Engineer shall also consult with th..
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Town of Brookhaven Neighborhood Preservation Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017Quality of Life, Urban Renewal
New York
Municipal
Chapter 82 if the Town Code for the Town of Brookhaven is aimed at preserving aesthetic integrity of residential neighborhoods, preventing neighborhood blight, protecting residential property values, encouraging residential property maintenance and enhancing the quality of life in residential neighborhoods. ..
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Village of Irvington Tree Preservation Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Quality of Life, Tree Preservation & Protection, Timber Harvesting
New York
Municipal
Chapter 202 of the Municipal Code for the Village of Irvington regulates the cutting, killing and destruction of trees in the Village. This law was enacted as a result of the Village’s findings that the presence of trees contribute to the health, safety and general welfare of the citizens...
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Town of Malta Planning Board & Zoning Board of Appeals Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017Local Boards, Zoning
New York
Municipal
This chapter of the Town Code of the town of Malta applies to the appointment, terms, functions and powers of alternate members to those appointed to serve on the Planning Board/Zoning Board of Appeals in the Town. The use of such alternate members to fill in for those that are absent is authorized pursuant to the provisions of the chapter...
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Village of Briarcliff Westchester County Greenway Compact Plan Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 6, 2017Intermunicipal Agreements, Local Environmental Law, Zoning, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
The Village of Briarcliff has become a participating member in the intermunicipal agreement (the Greenway Compact) pursuant to the Environmental Conservation Law of the State of New York. Accepted amendments to the Greenway Compact are to be adopted by the Village of Briarcliff Manor and proposed amendments that are rejected are not to be considered amendments to the Village of Briarcliff, unless the Village determines these amendments and policies are in conflict with their comprehensive plan, which the Village Council has ultimate power to ap..
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Town of Eden Agriculture Advisory Committee
Date Added: Thursday, May 4, 2017Local Boards, Agriculture, Farmland Protection & Preservation
New York
Municipal
Chapter 5 of the Town Code for the Town of Eden creates the Agricultural Advisory Committee for the Town and describes its powers and duties. ..
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County of Blue Earth Livestock Manure Management Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, March 19, 2017Local Environmental Law, Agriculture, Manure Management
New York
Municipal
The goal of this ordinance is to minimize the pollution from domestic manure. Standards have been set to control methods of storage, distribution, spreading, and animal confinement, in order to minimize impacts on land, water, and air...
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Town of Gardiner Permanent Open Space Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017Open Space Preservation
New York
Municipal
The Permanent Open Space ordinance regulates the development, ownership, and maintenance of space/ land that has been set aside permanently for nonuse. The code ensures that permanent open space will comport with township rules and guidelines. The regulation provides for ownership of permanent open space by state and private owners. Open space protection provides for preservation of easements, roads, highways, and developments...
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Land Use Law Center Model Comprehensive Economic Development Policy
Date Added: Saturday, April 22, 2017Comprehensive Planning, Economic Development
New York
Municipal
This model economic development policy is designed to supplement the comprehensive plans of communities participating in the Mayors’ Redevelopment Roundtable (MRR). It contains strategies that will increase the tax base, add jobs, reduce per capita municipal costs, and create new land uses that are needed to transform the local economy so that other critical comprehensive plan objectives can be addressed. It can be adopted as a whole or used as a menu of options to guide municipal actions regarding economic development according to local needs...
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Town of Gardiner Open Space Development Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Development Standards, Open Space Preservation, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Open Space Development ordinance implements procedures to allow for development of protected and preserved land, while preserving the natural attributes of the land. Conservation analysis shall take place to plan open space developments. Applicants must prepare inventory maps, surveys, topography maps, and descriptions of the land. Planning Board will make final determinations on the value of the lands preserved. ..
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Town of Gardiner Zoning Definitions & Word Use Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Zoning
New York
Municipal
This law provides the definition of terms used in Gardiner’s zoning laws. Some of the definitions listed include: wetland, dwelling, central sewage system, commercial excavation, development, impervious surface, junkyard, kennel, farm operation, floor area, lot, mobile home, principle use or structure, substantial improvement, and watercourse...
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Town of North Castle, New York Code § 258-4. Permitting
Date Added: Thursday, June 7, 2018Historic District Preservation, Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
Chapter 258 of the Town of North Castle, New York Code is titled Solar Infrastructure Siting. § 258-4(N) allows historic district preservation plans to incorporate solar technologies, if a Certificate of Appropriateness has been issued by the Town’s Landmark Preservation committee...
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Town of Brookhaven Transfer of Development Rights Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017Affordable Housing , Transfer of Development Rights (TDR), Workforce Housing
New York
Municipal
The Town of Brookhaven has determined that a transfer of development rights program is necessary to prevent adverse impacts due to inappropriate development, to facilitate the objectives of the Comprehensive Land Use Plan and to provide relief in cases of hardship. This is accomplished through a Transfer of Development Rights Program and Transfer of Development Rights Clearinghouse of which the establishment and implementation of such is given in this local law, including the use of such a program in association with Multiple Family Housing, Pl..
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Town of Cazenovia Lake Watershed Residential Use District
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017Development Standards, Open Space Preservation, Site Design Standards, Watershed Protection, Zoning, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
§ 165-11 and § 165-12 of the Town Code for the Town of Cazenovia list several regulations that are designed to limit the use of the lake and the development of property around the lake. Buildings in the designated area around the lake, except for churches and schools, have height limits, and buildings and lots have minimum size requirements. No machinery, equipment, or vehicles used in a business can be stored outside. Boat houses cannot be used for residential purposes and are limited by size and structure requirements. Recreational use an..
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Town of Hyde Park Zoning Law Purposes Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Zoning, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
The purpose of § 108-4 of the Town Code for the Town of Hyde Park is to protect and promote public health, safety, comfort, convenience, economy, aesthetics, general welfare, along with the preservation of the natural, agricultural and cultural resources of the Town of Hyde Park, and to serve other enumerated purposes in this ordinance such as promoting the success of the Town’s comprehensive plan, and encouraging smart growth...
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Town of Malone Wind Energy Facilities Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Wind Energy
New York
Municipal
In 2006, the Town of Malone enacted a “Wind Energy Facilities” statute which prohibits commercial wind energy conversion systems (WECS) but permits small WECS and WECS used solely for agricultural operations. Town of Malone has exercised its right to opt out of NY Real Property Tax Law § 487...
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Planning for Active Transportation - Bicycles and Pedestrians
Date Added: Thursday, April 12, 2018Healthy Communities, Transportation Demand Management, Complete Streets
New York
Municipal
A particular element of Buffalo, New York’s Comprehensive Plan 2030 is to redesign and repurpose their transportation network. Their goal is to promote transportation policies and projects that will help create an economically and environmentally healthy region, reverse current negative economic, land use, social and demographic trends, foster growth in areas with existing infrastructure, and promote equitable services for all residents.
In the first four years of the program, there are over 40 projects aimed at upgrading existing infrastru..
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Town of Southampton, New York Code § 330- 76(L) – Solar energy systems.
Date Added: Thursday, June 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Town of Southampton, New York amended its zoning code to allow roof-mounted and ground-mounted solar energy systems as accessory uses in all zoning districts when the primary use on a lot is for producing electricity for on-site consumption. If solar energy equipment is visible from the public right-of-way, it shall match the color scheme of the underlying structure...
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Town of East Bloomfield, New York Code § 135-41(H) – Solar arrays
Date Added: Monday, June 11, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Town of East Bloomfield, New York allows solar energy systems by right in all zoning districts. However, a party seeking to install a building- or structure- mounted solar array must have a letter from a professional engineer or registered architect certifying that the existing structure can support the additional gravity and wind loads of the solar energy system. Meanwhile, ground-mounted solar arrays can be located in a side or year yard, but if the applicant can demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Planning Board that locating such sol..
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Town of Yorktown Erosion and Sediment Control Permit Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, March 30, 2016Erosion & Sedimentation Control
New York
Municipal
The Town of Yorktown Erosion Control Ordinance requires landowners to obtain a permit for all land disturbing activities not exempted. Each permit must contain information about site conditions, the proposed activity, and an erosion and sediment control plan which allows the approval board to make informed decisions. General standards are also set forth in order to ensure that actions are taken to minimize the potential for erosion and to reduce the harmful effects on adjacent resources. Further, the ordinance requires activities exempted fr..
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Town of Geneva, New York Zoning Code § 130-4: Solar collectors and installations for major systems or solar farms
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
§ 130-4 of the Geneva Zoning Code is called Solar collectors and installations for major systems or solar farms. It highlights the requirements a solar system must follow to be allowed within all zoning districts in Geneva. This section also highlights the provisions of a decommissioning plan for solar sites, which must be included with all applications...
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Town of Eden Classes of Districts Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, May 4, 2017Development Standards, Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Overlay District, Stormwater Management
New York
Municipal
The Town of Eden has created several zoning districts, and use regulations in those districts, that will help control flooding and protect floodplains from uninformed and overdevelopment...
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State of New York Hudson River Valley Greenway
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017New York
State
This law is enacted to preserve and protect natural resources along the Hudson River Valley. The law creates and empowers both the Hudson River Valley Greenway Communities Council and the Greenway Heritage Conservancy for the Hudson River Valley, and gives these agencies the responsibility for carrying out the goals stated above. ..
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New York State Town – Transfer of Development Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Comprehensive Planning, Historic Preservation, Open Space Preservation, Scenic Resources, State Land Use Law, Transfer of Development Rights (TDR), Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
State
This law gives town boards in New York State the authority to provide for transfer of development rights. The purpose of providing for transfer of development rights is to protect the natural, scenic or agricultural qualities of open lands, to enhance sites and areas of special character or special historical, cultural, aesthetic or economic interest or value and to enable and encourage flexibility of design and careful management of land in recognition of land as a basic and valuable natural resource. ..
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Town of Croton-on-Hudson Environmental Compliance Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, February 10, 2016Environmental Compliance
New York
Municipal
This ordinance creates the position of an environmental consultant empowered to monitor new development to ensure that it is being complete in full compliance with the Town’s environmental protection laws. ..
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City of Kingston Mixed Use Overlay District
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Affordable Housing , Mixed/Multiple Use, Overlay District
New York
Municipal
This law creates the Mixed Use Overlay District, which is intended to provide affordable multifamily housing to low income families. ..
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City of Kingston Historic Preservation Commission
Date Added: Saturday, August 27, 2016Historic Preservation
New York
Municipal
This law creates The Historic Landmarks Preservation Commission, as well as the guidelines for the Commission to follow. ..
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Town of La Grange Training Requirements for Planning Board Members Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017Local Boards, Mandatory Training
New York
Municipal
This law requires land use training for planning board members in The Town of La Grange. This law also enumerates other powers and duties of the Planning Board...
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Town of Mendon Environmental Protection Overlay Districts Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Flood Prevention, Historic Preservation, Official Map, Overlay District, Scenic Resources, Sewage Management, Steep Slope Protection, Timber Harvesting, Zoning, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
This law creates environmental protection overlay districts for the Town of Mendon, NY. The districts include: Wetland Protection Overlay District, Steep Slope Protection Overlay District, Watercourse Protection Overlay District, Scenic Vista Protection Overlay District, Historic Preservation Overlay District, Waste Disposal Overlay District, Woodlot and Timber Harvesting Protection Overlay District, Flood Damage Prevention Overlay District, and Soils Susceptible to Ponding Overlay District. ..
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City of Albany Zoning Ordinance; Section 375-93- Solar Energy Equipment
Date Added: Thursday, September 7, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
Within its Zoning Ordinance, the City of Albany outlines its solar energy systems requirements in its own section, § 375-93. In it, the City requires that any person who wishes to install a solar energy system in a C-1 Neighborhood Commercial District shall have the installation reviewed by the Planning staff prior to the issuance of the building permit. This process will increase the amount of time and administrative requirements necessary to install these systems, becoming a barrier to their implementation.
..
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Town of Clifton Park Open Space Incentive Zoning
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017Incentive Zoning, Open Space Preservation
New York
Municipal
This law gives the Town Board to grant incentives to private land developers to advance the town’s specific policies in accordance with the Town’s GEIS for the western lands of Clifton Park, the 2003 Comprehensive Plan update, the 2003 Open Space Plan, and in coordination with other community planning mechanisms or land use techniques. ..
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City of Hudson Watershed Rules Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Watershed Protection, Drinking Water Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
Law requiring minimum distances between potentially polluting activities and the public water supply sources. The law also restricts activities the City has deemed harmful to the health, safety and welfare of its citizens. ..
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New York State Town Law – Official Maps, Changes Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, May 9, 2017Official Map, State Land Use Law, Zoning
New York
State
This law grants town boards the authority to make changes to their town’s official map. ..
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Town of Mamaroneck Conservation Areas Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017Open Space Preservation, Recreational Uses, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
Local Law No. 3-1966 of the Town of Mamaroneck details what types of places or areas within the Town amount to conservation areas. The several parts of § 77 explain what special regulations apply to such areas; § 77-17 sets out the penalty for noncompliance with the rules governing Conservation Areas in Mamaroneck...
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Town of Clifton Park Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
In Clifton Park, New York, solar arrays, both ground- or pole-mounted, are permitted as a special use in Agricultural/Residential 3 Districts, Residential 1 Districts, Conservation Residential Zones, and Hamlet Residential Districts. Clifton Park outlines factors in a separate subsection to be considered by the Planning Board in determining the sighting requirements for solar installation in these zoning districts. These factors include the “setbacks proposed and available in relation to other applicable setbacks for the zone within which the i..
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Village of Manorhaven Soil Erosion Control Standards
Date Added: Wednesday, October 21, 2015Erosion & Sedimentation Control
New York
Municipal
This ordinance was designed to control erosion and pollution during development, redevelopment and landscaping. In addition to requiring construction to follow the State’s Natural Resource Conservation Service’s Urban Guidelines for Best Management Practices, the ordinance requires that there be no measurable increase in erosion off the construction site. This ordinance also includes pollution prevention measures and waterfront building requirements to protect the Manhassett Bay and waters feeding the Long Island Sound...
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East New York Neighborhood Plan
Date Added: Monday, June 11, 2018Affordable Housing , Economic Development, Solar Energy
New York
Municipal
New York City’s East New York Neighborhood Plan was first released in 2016 and updated in 2017. The Plan’s 2017 update calls for a subset of the East New York community to be enrolled in the SolarizeNYC Program. This Program brings together local businesses and residents and connects them with the tools needed to install solar energy systems, including financial assistance, permitting guidance, and more. Per the 2017 update to the Plan, leaders in the neighborhood are to take the initiative on enrolling members of the community...
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Town of Yorktown Article II: Conservation Board; § 10-7. Creation; Powers & Duties; Membership
Date Added: Wednesday, March 15, 2017Local Boards, Local Governance
New York
Municipal
The Town of Yorktown has created a Conservation Board pursuant to General Municipal Law section 239-x. The Town Board appoints ten members to the Conservation Board and the conservation board members serve for three year terms...
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City of Beacon, New York Code-Chapter 223: Solar Collectors and Installations
Date Added: Monday, June 18, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The City of Beacon, New York’s Code has an article dedicated to solar collectors and their installation. The height of freestanding and ground-mounted solar collectors (permitted as accessory structures in all zoning districts) and any mounts shall not exceed twenty feet when oriented at maximum tilt. For large-scale solar collectors or solar farms (which are prohibited in areas zoned for residential use), the maximum height for freestanding solar panels located on the ground or attached to a framework located on the ground shall not exceed 20 ..
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Town of Brookhaven Critical Environmental Areas and SEQRA Implementation
Date Added: Wednesday, February 10, 2016Environmental Impact Review Requirements, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
This law creates a list of Type I and Type II actions, for the purpose of the Town implementing the State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA). ..
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Town of Bedford Aquifer Protection Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, March 19, 2017Aquifer Protection, Overlay District
New York
Municipal
This ordinance delineates an aquifer protection zone where certain uses and activities are regulated or prohibited. It includes a Table of Uses and their Wastewater Equivalents, which can aid in community development and planning. The boundaries of the protected zone are delineated on an official map, prepared by hydrogeologists...
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Village of Hastings-on-Hudson, Permitted Accessory Uses Regulation: ADUs
Date Added: Friday, June 23, 2023Accessory Uses
New York
Municipal
The Village of Hastings-on-Hudson is part of the Plus One ADU Program. Hasting's accessory dwelling unit (ADU) regulations have different requirements depending on the type of zoning district. Specifically, required lot size and maximum percentages of lot coverage varies by zoning district. One ADU is permitted per single-family residence upon approval. There is not a set number of permits, but the Planning Board is entitled to reject permits if they find there are such a number of ADUs as to adversely affect the character of the neighborhood. ..
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Town of Erwin Viewshed Protection Overlay District
Date Added: Tuesday, May 9, 2017Overlay District, Ridgeline Protection, Scenic Resources
New York
Municipal
This law provides a very detailed set of regulations with the primary purpose of protecting the viewshed and natural beauty of the town...
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Town of Livonia Land Conservation Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Floodplain Regulations, Historic Preservation, Open Space Preservation, Scenic Resources, Steep Slope Protection, Watershed Protection, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
This law outlines the Town’s procedure for creating Land Conservation Areas, and for protecting these areas from potentially harmful development. These areas were created on the basis of a soil and existing land use survey, and have been grouped in to seven categories, which include: natural forest/woodland, wetland, steep slope, floodplain, major scenic overlook, stream corridor, watershed and sites of historical/archaeological significance. ..
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New York’s Second Land Use System: A Description of New York City Land Use Law
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016Land Use Planning, Local Boards, Zoning
New York
State
Kathryn M. Ryan’s paper describes New York City's complex zoning regulations. Its purpose is to condense and explain the most important features of that code in a digestible format. It relies heavily on materials to be found on a variety of the City’s web pages, including that of the Department of City Planning, some of which is presented here verbatim...
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Town of Amenia Special Permits & Site Plan Review
Date Added: Sunday, March 19, 2017Alternative Dispute Resolution, Pre-Application & Consensus Building, Site Plan Approval
New York
Municipal
Preliminary conferences are required. At any point in the application review process the Planning Commission can assign a mediator to address concerns raised by a Special Permit use. The mediator’s decision is non-binding and the cost of the mediation will be charged to the applicant as part of the application process...
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Rye Brook, NY Affordable Housing Floating Zone
Date Added: Thursday, August 3, 2023Overlay District, Zoning
New York
Municipal
In order to qualify for the floating zone, developments of 2 units or more must be 50% affordable units. For rental units, households must make under 60% of AMI. For-purchase units, households must make under 80% of Westchester County AMI. The units must remain affordable for 50 years. The Board of Trustees can permit modification or waiver of the applicable dimensional and bulk requirements. To the extent practicable, the Board of Trustees and Planning Board shall prioritize affordable housing floating zone applications.
..
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Town of Somers, Special Exception Uses in Residence Districts: Accessory Apartments
Date Added: Friday, June 23, 2023Accessory Uses
New York
Municipal
The Town of Somers accessory dwelling unit (ADU) regulation has a 40,000-square-foot lot minimum. The Zoning Board of Appeals (ZBA) decides if an ADU is approved. If the site requires a significant amount of work to accommodate an ADU, the Planning Board must approve a site plan. The ADU is subject to physical inspection by the building inspector at any time. The permit lasts for seven years. The ADU must be a minimum of 300 square feet and a maximum of 800 square feet. Additionally, the regulation includes specifications on the application pro..
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Town of North Castle Parkland Reservations Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Recreational Uses, Site Plan Approval, Zoning
New York
Municipal
It is the intent of the Town Board to require the provision of parkland and recreation land in conjunction with the granting of site development plan approval for multifamily uses in all zoning districts of the Town of North Castle where such uses are permitted. The Town of North Castle finds that multifamily housing places an added burden on the Town of North Castle in regard to providing adequate park and recreation areas to service the needs of the inhabitants of such housing. In the event that it is not practical, in the opinion of the Plan..
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Town of Babylon Building Regulations §§ 89-91 to 89-95; Solar Zoning; Solar Panel Permit Application
Date Added: Monday, December 18, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Long Island United Solar Permitting Initiative, a collaborative effort of the Suffolk County Planning Commission, Nassau County Planning Commission and the Long Island Power Authority (LIPA), developed the model LIPA Fast-Track Permit Application to help Long Island municipalities streamline and standardize the building permit application process for “standard” installations of grid-tied PV or Residential Solar Hot Water (RSHW) systems. Babylon Town Code Ch. 89, Art. X established a solar energy system fast-track permit process modeled afte..
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City of Buffalo, NY Chapter 413 Streets and Sidewalks, Article XIV: Complete Streets
Date Added: Thursday, June 21, 2018Healthy Communities, Complete Streets
New York
Municipal
Article XIV within Chapter 413 of the City of Buffalo, NY Code outlines the Complete Streets code provisions for the city. This Section provides that the Commissioner of Public Works, Parks, and Streets shall include pedestrian and bicycle facilities in all new street construction, reconstruction, maintenance, public works, and projects undertaken by the City. The Bicycle and Pedestrian Advisory Board reviews all new construction/projects and provides consultation regarding the implementation of complete streets. The inclusion of bicycle and pe..
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Town of Brookhaven Moratorium on Telecommunications Facilities
Date Added: Friday, April 28, 2017Communications, Comprehensive Planning, Moratoria, Smart Growth
New York
Municipal
Chapter 17 of the Town Code for the Town of Brookhaven places a moratorium on telecommunications facilities (cell phone, mobile phone or wireless phone antenna towers) until a comprehensive plan is developed. The town’s purpose is to insure the installation of the towers and facilities in a manner that is expeditious, maximizes services, and benefits the community, while simultaneously minimizing adverse visual impacts and reducing the potential for adverse physical damage to adjacent properties...
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New York Town Law – Intermunicipal Cooperation in Comprehensive Planning & Land Use Regulation
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Comprehensive Planning, Intermunicipal Agreements, Land Use Planning, State Land Use Law, Zoning
New York
State
This state law from New York is a model for state governments seeking to promulgate statutory law to guide its towns in their efforts at local zoning and planning laws. Intermunicipal cooperation in comprehensive planning and land use regulation allows municipalities to work together toward smart growth in the region...
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New York State Town Law – Cluster Development Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Clustering & Cluster Development, Transportation & Land Use Planning, Zoning
New York
State
This New York State law is a model for state government seeking to promulgate statutory law to guide its towns in their efforts at local zoning and planning laws. Cluster Development is a tool for municipalities to utilize when working toward smart growth...
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Town of Greenburgh Wetlands & Watercourses Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Nonconforming Uses, Sewage Management, Drinking Water Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
Chapter 28 of the Town Code for the Town of Greenburgh addresses legislative findings that indicate the importance of protection, preservation, proper maintenance and proper use of the community’s ponds, lakes, reservoirs, water bodies, rivers, streams, watercourses, wetlands, natural drainage systems and adjacent land areas from encroachment, spoiling, pollution or elimination. The law also states the town’s policy of preventing the despoliation and destruction of wetlands and watercourse while taking into account varying ecological, water q..
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New York State Town Law – Planned Unit Development Zoning Districts Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Land Use Planning, Planned Unit Development, State Land Use Law, Zoning
New York
State
New York grants authority to local government to pass planned unit development ordinances. Other states may use this law as a guide when promulgating planned unit development statutes. Planned Unit Development Zoning Districts are implementation tools for municipalities to utilize in working toward smart growth...
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Town of Clarkstown Conservation Density District Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017Scenic Resources, Zoning, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
Chapter 290, Article II, § 290-6 of the Town Code for the Town of Clarkstown provides protection to Clarkstown’s scenic resources (including streams, wooded-areas, steep slopes, large open spaces and scenic vistas) by controlling and limiting development that would otherwise harm these scenic natural resources. ..
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Village of Croton-on-Hudson Excavation, Filling & Topsoil Removal Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, May 3, 2017Environmental Compliance, Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Landscaping, Scenic Resources
New York
Municipal
The Board of Trustees of the Village of Croton-on-Hudson has declared it policy that the natural topography of the land of the Village should be preserved and safeguarded, prohibiting changes to the land except those that are absolutely necessary in order to permit the proper and appropriate use of the land and the water. The topsoil, trees, and other materials which constitute the land, such as plant and wild life are of vital concern to the people of the Village. Therefore, the Village will regulate or prohibit excavation, the removal of tree..
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Town of Mamaroneck Local Impact Review
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016Development Standards
New York
Municipal
The purpose of Chapter 130 of the Town Code for the Town of Mamaroneck is to address the impact of noise, traffic, cultural or aesthetic resources, existing patterns of population concentration and community or neighborhood character and thereby provide for the proper care, management and use of the streets and highways of the Town, and the protection, safety, health of persons and property therein...
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Village of Croton-on-Hudson Local Waterfront Revitalization Program Consistency Review
Date Added: Wednesday, February 10, 2016Coastal Protection, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
The Village of Croton-on-Hudson, New York approved a Local Waterfront Revitalization Program Consistency Review Ordinance (or Chapter 225 of the Municipal Code) to ensure a proper balance between protection of natural resources and the need to accommodate population growth and economic development within the Village. The Law establishes a Waterfront Advisory Committee (WAC) in the Village of Croton-on-Hudson. First, a Village agency must prepare a coastal assessment form (CAF) to assist with the consistency review for any program approval or fu..
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Town of Gardiner Commission for the Conservation of the Environment Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, January 25, 2017Local Boards, Local Governance
New York
Municipal
Town of Gardiner Commission for Conservation of the Environment establishes the guidelines for the Commission, including the Commission’s intent, membership, powers, and required reports. The Commission’s intent is to conserve, preserve, and improve the natural and man-made environment of Gardiner in order to protect the health, welfare, and well being of the town’s citizens. The Commission’s duties include: advising the town board, conducting studies and surveys, obtaining and maintaining town maps, and working cooperatively with the Planning ..
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Town of Brookhaven Right to Farm Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, February 10, 2016Right-to-Farm, Farmland Protection & Preservation
New York
Municipal
The Right to Farm ordinance is a legislative intent acknowledging the importance of agricultural production to the Town’s character, environment, and economy, and defines protected farm practices. Food production, horticultural products, livestock, maple syrup, honey, horses, tree farms, and aquaculture products, are permitted to happen at all times without exception. This ordinance promises that it will advise developers against projects that are located within 1,000 feet of a farm, within an agricultural district or are working around an a..
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Building Height Limits
Date Added: Monday, June 4, 2018Traffic Calming & Safety
New York
Municipal
Washington’s zoning code provides height limitations for structures placed at or near street intersections. The code states that no new structure can be over thirty inches in height above the grade of the street. The restrictions create intersections that are more convenient and safe for the town residents, free from potentially dangerous obstructions in order to minimize traffic accidents and fatalities...
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Town of Irondequoit Open Space District Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Open Space Preservation, Recreational Uses, Zoning
New York
Municipal
Article XII, § 235 of the Town Code of Irondequoit creates an Open Space District for the purpose of preserving a suitable character and a stable environment for the establishment and maintenance of recreational and open space, and activities conducted within the Town. ..
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Town of Brookhaven Wetland Overlay District Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017Coastal Protection, Development Standards, Overlay District, Site Design Standards, Zoning, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
Increasing demand for development on property containing wetlands and surface waters may adversely impact and impair such natural resources. This statute creates an overlay district to protect property containing such resources. This statute uses Chapter 81 of the Town Code, Articles 24 and 25 of the New York Environmental Conservation Law, and maps drawn by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation to determine what areas should be considered wetlands, buffer zones, etc. and protected in the overlay district. This statute ..
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Town of Somers Code § 144-8(C)(4) Standards for Site Plan Approval; Solar Access
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
In the Town of Somers, New York, the planning board must consider solar access, including orientation of proposed buildings to sun angles; shading and windscreen potential of vegetation; and relationship to solar access for adjacent uses and properties when reviewing site plans. Town of Somers, NY, Code § 144-8(C)(4). ..
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Town of Warwick Land Use Mediation
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016Alternative Dispute Resolution
New York
Municipal
Recognizing that land use disputes can result in costly, time-consuming litigation, the Town of Warwick passed this Land Use Mediation ordinance to encourage and legitimatize voluntary mediation of disputes that arise during the planning and zoning permit approval process. The mediation of all disputes is authorized, including disputes with the town boards (i.e. the Planning Board). The statute was enacted in the interest of increasing non-adversarial resolution of disputes in the town. The mediation is voluntary but is encouraged and can be r..
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Town of Poughkeepsie Greenway Connections
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016Comprehensive Planning
New York
Municipal
The New York State Hudson River Valley Greenway Act of 1991provides economic and technical assistance to communities within the Greenway area, the 13 counties that border the Hudson River and the 242 municipalities within them, who voluntarily adopt a regional planning compact. The Greenway Act also gives incentives to municipalities that join county Greenway compacts. The option to participate in a county compact preserves local decision-making authority. The Dutchess County Department of Planning and Development, in 2000, created “Greenwa..
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Town of Dover Special Permits & Site Plan Review Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017Pre-Application & Consensus Building, Site Plan Approval
New York
Municipal
Prior to submitting a formal application for a zoning permit or special permit, the applicant is encouraged to prepare a rough conceptual plan of the proposed project or use, and to discuss the proposal with the Zoning Enforcement Officer and/or the Planning & Zoning Commission. This discussion is informal and non-binding...
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New York State Town Law – Site Plan Review Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, May 9, 2017Local Boards, Site Plan Approval, Zoning
New York
State
This law empowers Town Boards in New York state to conduct site plan review. The law contains instructions for towns to authorize planning boards to review proposed site plans, conduct public hearings, and make rulings as to approval (i.e. approval, approval with modification, conditional approval). Planning boards are also authorized to issue variances when public policy dictates. In addition, the law outlines other functions a planning board may perform, including: requiring reservation of parkland (or money in lieu thereof) or requiring the ..
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Town of Clinton Cluster Development Residential Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, February 10, 2016Clustering & Cluster Development
New York
Municipal
This residential cluster development law establishes a procedure for specifying the zoning district in which the law is applicable and the objectives to be accomplished. The law’s “standards” provide the applicable density and dimensional requirements and siting guidelines.
The law provides for the preservation of open space land and the granting of perpetual conservation easements to the municipality or qualified not-for-profits that prevent further development.
..
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Town of Mount Pleasant Stormwater Management & Erosion & Sediment Control Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Stormwater Management, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
This law is designed to mitigate the effects of stormwater runoff, by establishing minimum stormwater management requirements and controls. The Town Board is empowered to create this law and regulate on this subject matter, in order to protect the general health, safety and well-being of its citizens, as provided by the Municipal Home Rule Law of New York...
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State of New York Local Leaders Guide to Moratorium on Development
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016Comprehensive Planning, Local Boards, Moratoria
New York
State
This instructional paper gives local leaders an overview of ways in which to implement a moratorium on development in their communities. The paper covers such topics as: defining moratoria on development, the purpose of creating a moratorium on development, how and when to implement the moratorium, the authority under which communities are able to implement the moratorium, a description of what limitations and concerns may come up, and examples of municipalities putting moratoria into action.
..
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New York State Town Law – Town Comprehensive Plan Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Comprehensive Planning, State Land Use Law, Transportation & Land Use Planning
New York
State
This state law from New York is a model for state governments seeking to promulgate statutory law to guide its towns in their efforts at developing local comprehensive plans...
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Town of North Castle Moratorium Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Moratoria, Open Space Preservation
New York
Municipal
As a result of the negative impact residential development has had on the environment of North Castle, the damage to the Town’s natural resources, the loss of open space, and the ability of the infrastructure of Town and special district facilities and services to adequately serve Town residents, along with other factors; the Town Board has enacted this moratorium. It has been specifically determined to be necessary in order to prevent the final approval of any further residential subdivisions Townwide and any new construction or large scale ..
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Town of Brighton Subdivision Regulations
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017Environmental Compliance, Stormwater Management, Subdivision Regulations, Watershed Protection, Conservation Districts & Subdivisions
New York
Municipal
This ordinance requires developers to create a drainage report, and describes all that must be included therein. The report must be in accordance with the Town of Brighton Minimum Specifications for Dedication and the Irondequoit Watershed Collaborative. ..
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New York State General City Law Subdivision Review; Approval of Plats; Additional Requisites Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Subdivision Approvals
New York
State
Chapter 21, Article 3, §33 of the General City Laws requires land shown on a plat to meet all health, safety and welfare requirements before it can be approved by the planning board. The section also includes additional requirements for streets and highways, monuments, zoning, parkland and residential units. The Zoning Board of Appeals can authorize an area variance for plats that do not comply with local ordinances, the Planning Board can waive certain requirements and a performance bond or other security can be furnished to the city by the ow..
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New York State Town Law – Adoption of First Zoning Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Local Boards, State Land Use Law, Zoning
New York
State
This ordinance requires town boards to appoint a zoning commission, whose responsibility is to recommend boundaries of districts and regulations to be enforced in those boundaries. ..
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Double Curbs for Complete Streets
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018Complete Streets
New York
Municipal
Included in Nassau’s 2010 Master Plan is an initiative to improve the aesthetic and environmental performance of their downtown area through the repurposing of medians. Landscaping medians along arterial roadways and in use as parking lot buffers can improve the physical appearance and the environmental performance of a city.
Trees in parking areas can provide shade and reduce heat generated by large areas of asphalt. This is a simple measure to combat the larger issues of heat island effect and climate change mitigation. Planting areas also..
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Town of North Castle Trees Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Open Space Preservation, Tree Preservation & Protection
New York
Municipal
This law creates and charges the Tree Board with the duties of studying, investigating, counseling and developing or updating a written plan for the care, preservation, pruning, planting, replanting, removal or disposition of trees and shrubs in parks, along streets and in other public areas. Such plan will be presented annually to the Town Board and, upon its acceptance and approval, shall constitute the official comprehensive town tree plan for the Town of North Castle, State of New York. The Tree Board, when requested by the Town Board, shal..
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Buffalo Bicycle Riverwalk
Date Added: Monday, June 4, 2018Healthy Communities, Bicycle Infrastructure
New York
Municipal
Chapter 91, Article I of Buffalo, New York’s Charter and Ordinances addresses the activities allowed on the Riverwalk path. Riverwalk is a paved, double-lane pedestrian bicycle trail that travels 13.2 miles north from downtown Buffalo to Tonawanda, New York. The legislation states: “No person shall operate or drive any vehicle which is propelled by any power other than muscular power on that property in the City known as the "Riverwalk."..
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Town of Chenango Aquifer District
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017Aquifer Protection, Zoning, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
§ 73-11 of the Town Code for the Town of Chenango contains several definitions of terms that are important to aquifer protection such as; aquifer recharge zone, watercourse, cone of depression, and toxic or hazardous material. The purpose behind this statute is to minimize the potential for contamination of the aquifer which currently supplies water to the town. This statute divides the Town of Chenango into the following types of aquifer district zones: [1] Wellhead Protection Area, [2] Aquifer Recharge Area, and [3] Watershed Area. These z..
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Town of Clifton Park Selective Cutting of Timber Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Timber Harvesting
New York
Municipal
Chapter 184 of the Town Code for the Town Clifton Park regulates the cutting of trees six inches or more in diameter at breast height. In order to cut such trees, the law requires loggers to apply for a permit in accord with the permit procedure enumerated in § 184-3 of the ordinance. The ordinance charges the Building Inspector with the enforcement of the ordinance and the ordinance also sets for the penalties for noncompliance...
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Town of Goshen Moderate Income & Affordable Housing Law
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Affordable Housing , Local Boards
New York
Municipal
The Moderate Income and Affordable Housing Local Law recognizes the need for affordable housing and establishes development standards, eligibility requirements (priority given to emergency personnel and municipal employees), maintenance and tax assessments for affordable housing units. Additionally, the ordinance establishes a Housing Review Board to oversee and administer these program objectives...
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Village of Larchmont Critical Environmental Areas Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017Local Environmental Law, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
The statute designates specific areas within New York State as critical areas of environmental concern and affords protections to these areas from adverse actions prescribed by law and regulations...
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Town of Irondequoit Environmental Protection Overlay District
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Overlay District, Zoning, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
The purpose of Article XI of the Town Code is to protect the environment in Irondequoit through the establishment of overlay districts established in this article which provide special controls over land development located in sensitive environmental areas within the Town of Irondequoit. ..
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County of Ulster, Model Ordinance: Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU)
Date Added: Thursday, June 15, 2023Accessory Uses
New York
Municipal
The County of Ulster Model Ordinance for Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) is a guide for other municipalities in the county to adopt (in part or in whole) to promote and regulate ADUs. The goal of ADUs in the area is to increase the housing stock efficiently, increase affordability, provide smaller and more accessible housing options, and protect stability and property values. The model includes ADU requirements such as eligibility, number of ADUs permitted, occupancy and use, creation, density, approval, application fees/information, design, an..
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New York State Town Law: § 267-b. Permitted Action by a Town Board of Appeals
Date Added: Thursday, March 2, 2017Local Boards, Local Governance
New York
State
This law describes the procedures to be used by Zoning Boards of Appeals in towns within New York State. The topics covered include: orders, requirements, decisions, interpretations, determinations, use variances, area variances, and imposition of conditions. ..
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Sustainable Westchester
Date Added: Thursday, June 7, 2018Energy Efficiency & Conservation, Intermunicipal Agreements, Recycling, Solar Energy, Water Resource Protection, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Complete Streets
New York
Regional - Multiple Municipalities
Sustainable Westchester is a consortium of Westchester County local governments that facilitates effective sustainability initiatives; engages community stakeholders; and shares tools, resources, and incentives to create healthier and more vibrant and attractive communities. Sustainable Westchester is a merger of the successful and popular Northern Westchester Energy Action Consortium (NWEAC) and Southern Westchester Energy Action Consortium (SWEAC)...
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City of Big Flats Subdivision and Development Regulations § 17.36.140; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Monday, December 18, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
In section 17.36.140 of its Zoning Ordinance, the Town of Big Flats adopted a solar access regulation that requires applicants for new residential development including either ten or more acre of site development area and/or more than 50 dwelling units to submit a solar access plan with the site plan. The solar access plan must: (1) protect solar access between the solar azimuths of -45 degrees east of due south and +45 degrees west of due south; (2) for solar access roads, design lots and building setbacks so that buildings are oriented with t..
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City of Ithaca (NY) Municipal Code, Chapter 283: Stormwater Utility
Date Added: Tuesday, May 23, 2017Stormwater Management
New York
Municipal
The City of Ithaca’s Stormwater Utility chapter describes the calculation of stormwater user fees charged for costs incurred by the City in providing stormwater services. This monthly fee is equal to the product of $4 and the number of Equivalent Residential Units (ERUs) of impervious surface area on the lot, less any credits for the lot approved by the Superintendent of Public Works. One ERU is equal to 2,300 square feet, the average amount of impervious surface area on a residential property as determined by the Common Council. The stormwater..
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Town of Pawling Enforcement Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016Enforcement, Timber Harvesting
New York
Municipal
The Town of Pawling’s Timber Harvesting ordinance contains enforcement provision related specifically to harvesting issues and protection of natural resources. ..
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New York State General City Law Subdivision Review; Approval of Plats; Development of Filed Plats Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Subdivision Approvals
New York
State
Chapter 21, Article 3, § 32 of the General City Laws provides the planning board with the authority to approve preliminary and final plats of subdivisions showing lots, blocks or sites, with or without streets or highways. The section also defines the approval, certification and filing procedures for preliminary and final plats...
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County of Westchester Model Conservation Easement
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016Open Space Preservation
New York
Municipal
This conservation easement is a model that demonstrates the necessary elements of a conservation easement. There is an introductory commentary written by the Westchester Land Trust that explains some of the key provisions that are necessary in the terms of the agreement. There are also explanations of key elements and requirements particular to New York. This sample is discussed in the commentary Conservation Easements & Land Trusts: Overview, Examples and their Role in the Development Process, written by Sam Brown...
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Local Waterfront Revitalization Program Consistency Review
Date Added: Wednesday, October 21, 2015Coastal Protection, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
The Village of Croton-on-Hudson, New York approved a Local Waterfront Revitalization Program Consistency Review Ordinance (or Chapter 225 of the Municipal Code) to ensure a proper balance between protection of natural resources and the need to accommodate population growth and economic development within the Village. The Law establishes a Waterfront Advisory Committee (WAC) in the Village of Croton-on-Hudson. First, a Village agency must prepare a coastal assessment form (CAF) to assist with the consistency review for any program approval or fu..
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Long Island Sound Coastal Management Program
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017Coastal Protection, Comprehensive Planning, Intermunicipal Agreements, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
The Long Island Sound Coastal Management Program offers a comprehensive vision for the preservation and development of the Long Island Sound coast in the State of New York. It focuses on four main issues: “The Developed Coast,” which seeks to incorporate the natural landscape of the sound with community development; “The Natural Coast,” which aims to achieve sustainable use of the Sound’s natural resources; “The Public Coast,” which has the goal of providing more public access to the Sound; and finally, “The Working Coast,” which encourages th..
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Town of DeWitt, New York Sustainability Plan & Solar Task Force
Date Added: Thursday, June 7, 2018Energy Efficiency & Conservation, Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency, Local Boards, Solar Energy
New York
Municipal
In 2010, the Town of DeWitt, New York adopted a Sustainability Policy that stated goals and related planning initiatives to increase the Town's environmental sustainability. Following this, the Town adopted a Sustainability Plan in 2014 to provide GHG emission reduction strategies for achieving Sustainability Policy goals and to guide municipal operations. The Sustainability Policy presents a goal to “review and revise Town codes, plans and policies to support energy efficiency, renewable energy systems and green practices.” Its related plann..
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Town of West Warwick Development Fee Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 12, 2017Real Estate Transaction Fee
New York
Municipal
This Development fee ordinance provides for a consolidated schedule of fees and allows for a periodic review and modification of fees assessed for development. These fees include Planning Board Fees, Zoning Board Fees, Town Board Fees and Building Inspection Fees...
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Town of North Salem Historic Road Preservation Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Historic Preservation, Transportation & Land Use Planning
New York
Municipal
This law designed to protect and preserve historical roads in the Town of North Salem, NY. The law is designed to accomplish this by: (1) designating, protecting, preserving and maintaining certain roads within North Salem which shall qualify, under the definition stated in this chapter, as historic roads, (2) setting forth criteria for designation of roads within the Town, which may be found to qualify, (3) prescribing guidelines for maintenance of these historic roads, and (4) providing for the educational, cultural, recreational, environmen..
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Town of Brookhaven Nature Preserves Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017Open Space Preservation, Scenic Resources, Wildlife & Fish Habitat, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
The purpose of this law is to create nature preserves and to keep these areas in their existing natural or near natural state for the benefit of present and future Town residents. The law address such topics as the evaluation and dedication of parcels to nature preserve, management of nature preserves, volunteers, nature preserves designated on lands not owned by the Town, use of nature preserves, hours of operation, responsibility for loss, damage or theft, prohibitions, removal of all or portions of site from nature preserve, “Adopt-A-Preser..
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Town of Blooming Grove Staged Development Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 5, 2017Development Standards, Site Plan Approval, Subdivision Approvals
New York
Municipal
The Staged Development ordinance is intended to complement and be applied in accordance with subdivision regulations and is only intended to apply when final subdivision approval is sought in section. It covers procedure for applying, construction of improvements, expiration of approvals and, exemptions from zoning amendment, fees and applicability...
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New York State Town Law – Incentive Zoning Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017State Land Use Law
New York
State
This state law from New York is a model for state governments seeking to promulgate statutory law to guide its towns in their local zoning and planning efforts. Incentive Zoning is an implementation tool for municipalities to utilize in working toward smart growth...
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Town of Huntington Climate Action Plan
Date Added: Monday, June 11, 2018Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency, Land Use Planning, Solar Energy, Stormwater Management, Transportation & Land Use Planning, Climate Change Planning
New York
Municipal
In 2015, the Town of Huntington, New York released its Climate Action Plan. The Plan calls for removing zoning hurdles that obstruct the development of solar energy systems on private property and to streamline the permitting process. It calls for the installation of solar PV capacity on every public facility that can reasonably support such systems. The Plan also notes that to achieve economies of scale, the Town should bid multiple installations together or use requirements contracts to promote cost efficiencies. The plan also directs the Tow..
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Energize NY
Date Added: Monday, June 4, 2018Energy Efficiency & Conservation, Climate Change Planning
New York
Municipal
It is the policy of both the Town of Yorktown and the State of New York to achieve better energy efficiency and renewable energy goals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, mitigate the effect of global climate change, and advance a clean energy economy. Yorktown has partnered with the Energy Improvement Corporation, a local development corporation, to make funds available to qualified property owners who meet the energy efficiency qualifications.
Potentially qualified residents can apply for funding through the EIC, who run energy audits to t..
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County of Rockland Mandatory Training Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017Local Boards, Mandatory Training
New York
Municipal
This is a sample law provided by the Rockland Municipal Planning Federation for municipalities within the county to adopt. The resolution requires land use training of Planning Boards and Zoning Boards of Appeal. ..
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Town of Goshen Training Requirements for Appointed Board Members Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017Local Boards, Mandatory Training
New York
Municipal
This law requires land use training for members of the Planning Board, the Zoning Board of Appeals and the Environmental Review Board in the Town of Goshen. The reason for the requirements is that the Town finds that ongoing continuing education is critical to the proper function of the Boards and is necessary to bring about reasoned action on submitted applications. Board members that do not comply with these zoning requirements can be removed by the Town board, after hearing, from their position. ..
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Town of Batavia Animal Waste Storage Facilities Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017Sewage Management
New York
Municipal
This law directs persons wanting to install and/or modify any animal waste storage facility where to submit their proposal. ..
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New York Waterfront Revitalization of Coastal Areas & Inland Law
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017Coastal Protection, Waterfront Revitalization
New York
State
This compilation of codes is intended to provide for State agencies acting in the coastal area the necessary framework for the consideration and application of the State's policies with respect to waterfront revitalization and coastal resources, as contained in article 42 of the Executive Law...
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Town of East Hampton Policy Statement & Coastal Overlay District Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Coastal Protection, Overlay District, Sea Level Rise Adaptation
New York
Municipal
The Town of East Hampton acknowledges that, while the extent of future sea level rise and increased storm activity may be uncertain, “it is well established that present sea level is rising and statistically certain that storms will be an ever-present threat to the Town’s coastal zone.” By enacting the coastal flooding and erosion control recommendations of the Town’s Local Waterfront Revitalization Program, Policies 11-17, the Town’s Coastal Overlay District (COD) is intended to improve protection of coastal resources in East Hampton. The CO..
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New York State Tax Exemption for Wind Energy Systems
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Wind Energy
New York
State
This NY state law provides a tax exemption for person with wind energy systems on their property if they were built before 1988 or between 1991 and 2011. The law exempts the property owner to the extent that the property value increases because of the presence of a wind energy system for a period of 15 years. A municipality has the authority to remove the exemption for any wind energy system constructed after 1991. If a municipality has not removed exemption, it may require the owner of property to enter a PILOT agreement for a term of no more..
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Town of New Paltz Wallkill River Recreation Overlay District
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Comprehensive Planning, Floodplain Regulations, Open Space Preservation, Overlay District, Recreational Uses, Smart Growth, Wildlife & Fish Habitat
New York
Municipal
This law creates the Wallkill River Recreation District, which is to be an area that serves the combined purposes of recreation, open space preservation, floodplain management, wildlife protection and scenic resource preservation. The law outlines the procedures for obtaining land to be used in the project and creates restrictions to be placed on these lands once they become part of the project. The 2011 amendment adds “The public hearing upon the application for renewal of such special permits shall be noticed in accordance with Article XVI, ..
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Town of Blooming Grove Tree Harvesting Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 5, 2017Enforcement, Landscaping, Quality of Life, Timber Harvesting, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
Chapter 219 of the Town Code for the Town of Blooming Grove is intended to regulate timber harvesting, require land reclamation and utilize professional management expertise in timber harvesting. The general purpose of the article is to promote the welfare of the residents of the by protecting the natural environment and public safety as may be affected by timber harvesting. The article sets permit requirements as well as standards, enforcement authorizations and penalties...
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The Town of Coxsackie Waterfront Residential District Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, May 23, 2017Coastal Protection, Land Use Planning, Planned Development Districts
New York
Municipal
The Town of Coxsackie created the Waterfront Residential District (WR) to protect areas adjacent to the Hudson River. The purpose of this district is to protect the waterfront, maintain the existing residential character, and allow for low impact water-dependent and water-related recreational uses appropriate for the community and the river. A few specific purposes of the WR is the preservation of natural, scenic, and historic values along the Hudson River and to encourage compatible land uses along the Hudson River. Buildings must be set back ..
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Town of Bedford Aquifer Protection Zone
Date Added: Wednesday, October 14, 2015Aquifer Protection
New York
Municipal
In order to protect groundwater quality, this ordinance gives specific allowances for the amount of sewage flow a specific type of dwelling can produce, and restricts certain activities in the aquifer zone, such as dry-cleaning, photo processing, auto service, and hazardous waste and septic sludge storage and disposal. Activities such as using road salt and deicing material require a special permit. ..
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Town of Malta Planned Development Districts – Zoning Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017Planned Development Districts, Zoning
New York
Municipal
Chapter 167 of the Town Code for the Town of Malta sets forth the requirements for developing the planned development district. The regulations imposed on the developer include size requirements of developments, the set-asides for work-force, and specifications related to retirement housing. The planning board may also add additional requirements which are deemed necessary. There is an automatic termination within 5 years if site plan approval or the building permit has not been obtained, or construction has yet to commence...
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Town of Brookhaven Central Pine Barrens District
Date Added: Wednesday, February 10, 2016Comprehensive Planning
New York
Municipal
This ordinance provides comprehensive details about planning tools and permitting processes that are consistent with the Central Pine Barrens Land Use Plan and promote the protection of the quality and quantity of surface water, groundwater and the short term and long term health of the Central Pine Barrens ecosystem. The ordinance recognizes Pine Barrens Credits for the transfer of development rights and incentive zoning, as well as a residential overlay district and a planned development district that support the protection of the core prese..
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New York State General City Law: Chapter 21; Article 3 Official Maps & Planning Boards; § 27 Planning Board, Creating & Appointing
Date Added: Thursday, March 2, 2017Local Boards, Local Governance
New York
State
This law authorizes cities in New York State to create Planning boards, and describes the appointment procedures for these boards. The law specifies such things as what persons are eligible for positions on the Planning Boards, what the term of service should be for these positions, the size of the Boards, and the voting procedures. ..
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State of New York Official Map Changes Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Development Standards, Official Map, Site Plan Approval, Zoning, Street & Sidewalk Development
New York
State
This law authorizes city legislatures to change or add to the official map of the city in order to lay out new streets, highways parks and even drainage systems. Changes are made subject to adequate notice to those persons noted on last real property tax notice which is to be included in such proposed layout, and are subject to report by planning board who may forfeit right to suspend further action if no response is rendered within thirty days of such reference. Adopted changes become part of city’s official map and are deemed final...
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Land Use Law Center’s Model Critical Environmental Area Overlay District
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017Overlay District, Wildlife & Fish Habitat, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
State
The following is a model law that can be used by municipalities to protect wildlife habitat and other critical environmental areas. ..
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Town of Saugerties Waterfront Overlay District
Date Added: Tuesday, May 23, 2017Coastal Protection, Land Use Planning, Overlay District, Planned Development Districts, Site Design Standards
New York
Municipal
The Town of Saugerties adopted the Waterfront Overlay District (WOD) to protect and enhance the shoreline by protecting water quality and preventing erosion along the Hudson River, Esopus Creek, and Plattekill Creek. All development in the WOD District will be reviewed on a case by case via the site plan review process to ensure appropriate layout and design of all properties. The WOD is superimposed over the basic zoning districts, therefore regulations from the underlying district and the WOD apply in those areas. Properties or portions of pr..
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Land Use Law Center Streamlined Review & Approval Process
Date Added: Saturday, April 22, 2017Streamlining
New York
Municipal
For cities and villages to encourage needed development and the tax base benefits it brings, they must be certain that the process of receiving, reviewing, and acting on applications for land use approvals is efficient, saving applicants the time and cost of undue delays. Streamlining ensures that this process is as clear and understandable as possible, from the moment an applicant enters city or village hall until a Certificate of Occupancy for a project is secured. This document is designed to assist municipalities in assessing the purpose o..
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State of New York Indebtedness Provision for Public Services Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Intermunicipal Agreements, Sewage Management, Stormwater Management, Drinking Water Protection & Conservation
New York
State
This provision of the New York State Constitution allows the legislature to authorize any municipality or combination of two or more public corporations to contract indebtedness in order to supply public services. In certain circumstances, the provision also allows the municipalities in excess of its needs. Services addressed in this provision include: water supply, drainage, and sewage disposal...
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New York State Town Law – Article Seventy-Eight Proceeding Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Local Boards, Zoning
New York
State
This law creates a procedure through which a party may challenge the decision of the Zoning Board of Appeals. Persons aggrieved by a decision of the Zoning Board of Appeals may apply to the New York State Supreme Court for review through Article Seventy-Eight of the Civil Practice Law and Rules. Under this section, the Supreme Court is authorized to reverse, affirm, or modify a decision that is brought up for review...
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State of New York Environmental Quality Review Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, May 3, 2017Environmental Impact Review Requirements, Local Boards, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
State
This law mandates that agencies within the state to require that an environmental impact statement be filed with them, before any person or business undertakes a project which may have potentially adverse environmental consequences. The law also describes the procedures for filing the impact statements and reviewing them. ..
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State of New York Bill of Rights for Local Governments
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Land Acquisition, Local Boards, Local Governance
New York
State
The Bill of Rights for Local Government establishes the conditions under which local governments shall operate. In addition to procedures for the formation of local governments, this provision of the Constitution governs procedures regarding eminent domain, public utilities, and annexation of property...
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City of Ames Zoning Code; Section 29.1309- Solar Energy Systems
Date Added: Thursday, September 7, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The City of Ames, Iowa has dedicated a whole section in the “Additional Requirements for Specific Uses” Article of its City Code to the implementation of solar energy systems, § 29.1309. Section 1309’s purpose is to “facilitate the installation and constructions of solar energy systems so that the systems are safe, effective, and efficient, as well as harmonious with the character of the adjacent area where located.” The section goes on to list the design and placement requirements for Freestanding, Residential Attached, and Non-Residential Att..
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Town of Ossining Code § 183-11(B)(2)(d) Tree Protection & Solar Access; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Town of Ossining’s tree protection ordinance authorizes approval authorities to grant a tree removal permit if removal will have a positive effect upon (among other things) solar access for the property owner and nearby properties. Town of Ossining, NY, Code § 183-11(B)(2)(d). ..
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New York State Statute of Local Governments: Chapter 58-A of the Consolidated Laws
Date Added: Wednesday, March 15, 2017Local Governance
New York
State
The Statute of Local Governments grants powers to local governments pursuant the State Constitution. These include, but are not limited to, the powers to adopt, amend and repeal ordinances, acquire real property, establish recreational facilities on the property, and administer rent in connection with the property. Local governments can also adopt zoning regulations and perform comprehensive planning work related to their jurisdiction. The legislature reserves several powers to enact laws including those laws relating to defense of state in ..
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Village of Port Jefferson Required Training for Members of Planning Board & Zoning Board of Appeals
Date Added: Wednesday, March 15, 2017Local Boards, Local Governance
New York
Municipal
The Required Training for Members of Planning Board and Zoning Board of Appeals Law (or § 250-54) of the Municipal Code for the Village of Port Jefferson recognizes that the training of planning board and zoning board of appeals members is essential to allow them to carry out their duties. Minimum training requirements are set out and reimbursement provisions are provided for cost of training as well as travel, lodging, and meal expense...
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2017 Comprehensive Plan- Town of Reading, New York
Date Added: Monday, June 11, 2018Comprehensive Planning, Economic Development, Land Use Planning, Solar Energy, Stormwater Management, Water Resource Protection, Wind Energy, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Traffic Calming & Safety, Parks & Recreation
New York
Municipal
Reading, New York’s 2017 Comprehensive Plan promotes the use of solar energy throughout the community. It calls for Reading to provide information about the feasibility of solar energy to residents and to collaborate with state and other organizations in programs that encourage growth in solar energy systems. The plan also calls for Reading to reform its land use regulations to specifically allow certain types of solar energy systems and to establish procedures for review and approval of both small-scale accessory systems and large-scale instal..
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Town of Brookhaven Water Resources Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 28, 2017Aquifer Protection, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
Chapter 78 of the Town Code for the Town of Brookhaven intends to protect local groundwater from appropriation, pollution, and removal. No person may remove subterranean water or discharge industrial waste into such water within the town without obtaining a permit. A person may remove subterranean water provided it is recharged into the ground in the town. Permits are issued only if the removal of the water or the discharge of waste will not diminish or harm the supply of groundwater. The town may charge a fee to use the water. The town ma..
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Zoning Prohibiting Fast-Food Establishments
Date Added: Monday, June 4, 2018Healthy Communities, Low Nutrition Uses
New York
Municipal
This zoning code removes fast-food establishments from the community and improves the public health through reducing consumption of unhealthy foods. Section 4.7.1 of Concord’s zoning code expressly states: “Drive-in or fast food restaurants are expressly prohibited. A drive-in or fast food restaurant is defined as any establishment whose principal business is the sale of foods or beverages in a ready-to-consume state, for consumption within the building or off-premises, and whose principal method of operation includes: (1) sale of foods and bev..
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Town of Eden Wind Energy Conversion Systems Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Wind Energy
New York
Municipal
Chapter 217 of the Town Code for the Town of Eden is designed to promote the effective and efficient use of wind energy conversion systems (WECS) and to regulate the placement of wind energy conversion systems so that the public health, safety, natural resources, and aesthetics will not be jeopardized. ..
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Town of Mamaroneck Coastal Zone Management Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017Coastal Protection, Intermunicipal Agreements
New York
Municipal
The purpose of this statute is to establish the Coastal Zone Management Commission to monitor and coordinate the implementation of the Local Waterfront Revitalization Program of the Town of Mamaroneck and the Village of Larchmont. According to this statute, the Commission must consist of 11 members (five residents of Larchmont appointed by the Village of Larchmont, five residents of the unincorporated area of Mamaroneck appointed by the Town of Mamaroneck, and 1 chair appointed by both municipalities). Members must serve without compensation...
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City of New York Special Midtown District Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Development Standards, Incentive Zoning
New York
Municipal
The City of New York created incentive zoning in 1961 to acquire available open space in densely packed commercial or business districts. Article VIII, Chapter 1 in the New York City Zoning Resolution regulates floor area bonus for Special Midtown District. As-of-right “floor area” bonuses are not permitted in this district...
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Town of Somers Scenic Resource Protection Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, April 17, 2017Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
The Scenic Resource Protection Ordinance seeks to safeguard the town's scenic resources, aesthetic, and cultural heritage, as embodied in the landscape and geologic features and improvements of the town. The regulation attempts to stabilize and improve property values in such scenic resource areas, preserve the semi-rural character of the town and promote traffic and pedestrian safety. ..
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Town of New Hartford, New York Code § 118- 74 – Solar Energy Systems
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Town of New Hartford’s solar energy system regulation defines freestanding or ground- mounted solar energy systems as those directly installed in the ground and not attached or affixed to an existing structure. Rooftop mounted or building mounted systems are defined as those with solar panels mounted on top of a roof structure either as a flush-mounted system or modules fixed to frames that can be tilted toward the south at an optimal angle. The regulation defines small-scale solar as solar photovoltaic systems rated up to ten kW per hour o..
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Town of Brookhaven Moratorium on Development of Substandard Parcels
Date Added: Friday, April 28, 2017Comprehensive Planning, Moratoria
New York
Municipal
Chapter 17C of the Town Code for the Town of Brookhaven creates a moratorium halting construction on substandard parcels (lot width of less than 60 feet or a lot area of less than 6,000 square feet) until the Board completes planning studies to enact comprehensive zoning changes. Though, there are exceptions for work in progress and hardship as described below. The moratorium is based on a desire for comprehensive planning and smart growth for the present and the future. ..
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New York State Town Law – Ordinances & Licenses
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Comprehensive Planning, Local Boards, Local Governance, Street & Sidewalk Development
New York
State
Article 9, sections 130-139 of New York Consolidated laws describes the authority town ordinances might have over building construction, maintenance, and removal; plumbing regulations; dwellings; sidewalks, streets, and highways; fire prevention; encroaching walls; pets and wildlife and other areas. The article also describes the procedures of effecting an ordinance, the issuing of licenses, and the role of the building inspector...
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New York State Town Law – Purposes in View Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Comprehensive Planning, State Land Use Law, Transportation & Land Use Planning, Zoning, Disaster Mitigation
New York
State
This ordinance explains the purpose behind granting zoning and land use planning authority to municipalities in New York State. ..
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New York State Town Law: § 271. Town Planning Board, Creation & Appointment
Date Added: Thursday, March 2, 2017Local Boards, Local Governance
New York
State
This law describes the creation and appointment procedures for Planning Boards in Towns located in New York State. The law specifies such things as: what persons are eligible for positions on the Planning Boards, what the term of service should be for these positions, the size of the Boards, and the voting procedures. ..
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Town of New Paltz Water Conservation Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 12, 2017Water Conservation
New York
Municipal
This law was adopted by the Town of New Paltz in order to conform with the performance standards of the New York State Environmental Conservation Law, which places water conservation requirements on sink and lavatory faucets, shower heads, urinals and toilets. The law also places water conservation requirements on air-conditioning systems and car washes. ..
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Establishing Land Use Protections for Community Gardens
Date Added: Monday, June 4, 2018Healthy Communities, Food Deserts
New York
Municipal
New York City passed a zoning resolution defining “FRESH” food stores as a store with at least 6,000 sq. ft. of space utilized for selling grocery products intended for home preparation and consumption. At least 50% of the space must be used for non-perishable items, and at least 30% must be used for the sale of perishable goods. At least 500 ft. of the perishable food section must be dedicated to fresh produce. The city has offered to modify density and parking requirements to encourage establishment of “FRESH” food stores.
Dedicating these..
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Garden City Village, NY Affordable Housing
Date Added: Tuesday, August 31, 2021Affordable Housing , Density
New York
Municipal
Garden City Village enacted an Affordable Housing Density Bonus to promote affordable units within the village. Affordable housing is affordable for those whose income is 80% or less AMI. The density bonus includes a density increase by at least 10% or an increase in floor area ratio, and the additional units created must be dedicated affordable. These bonuses are permitted in any residential or mixed use zones in which five or more residential units are being developed. The ordinance also sets guidelines for permitting, deed, ownership, and co..
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Town of Yorktown Erosion and Sediment Control Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, March 30, 2016Erosion & Sedimentation Control
New York
Municipal
The purpose of this chapter is to safeguard persons, protect property, prevent damage to the environment and promote the public welfare by guiding, regulating and controlling the design, construction, use and maintenance of any development or other activity which disturbs or breaks the surface of soil or results in the movement of earth on land situated in the Town. ..
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Town of Yorktown Conservation Area Protection Laws
Date Added: Wednesday, March 30, 2016Conservation Districts & Subdivisions
New York
Municipal
The Conservation Area Protection Laws regulate certain land uses to preserve the physical condition of certain real property. Specifically, the purpose of the Chapter 140 is the preservation or maintaining the scenic, open, historic, architectural, natural or open physical condition of the real property...
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Town of Brookhaven Planned Retirement Congregate Housing Community Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017Affordable Housing , Senior Housing
New York
Municipal
Chapter 85, Article XIIA of the Town Code for the Town of Brookhaven creates a Planned Retirement Congregate Housing Community District, in order to give affordable housing options to the elderly community in the Town of Brookhaven, NY. ..
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Town of North Castle Conservation Subdivisions Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016Conservation Districts & Subdivisions
New York
Municipal
Simultaneously with the approval of a subdivision plat and pursuant to § 281 of the Town Law, at the written request of the applicant, the Planning Board is authorized to modify the zoning regulations in residential districts with respect to lot area and dimensions, provided that the enumerated criteria are met. ..
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City of Olean, New York Code of Ordinances Article 10.25 – Solar Energy Production Facilities
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
Article 10.25 details the requirements for solar systems in the city of Olean, New York. A Solar Energy Production Facility (aka a Solar Farm) is permitted in certain districts under a Special Use Permit.
§ 10.25.5 subsections (1) and (3)(a-d) describe decommissioning and abandonment requirements. All applications for a solar farm shall include a decommissioning plan to ensure that the site will be restored to a useful, nonhazardous condition without delay upon abandonment or cessation of activity. The decommissioning plan shall include, b..
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Town of Greenburgh Protection of Steep Slopes Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Steep Slope Protection, Watershed Protection, Drinking Water Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
The purpose of Chapter 245 of Greenburgh’s Town Code is to prevent erosion and sedimentation, including loss of topsoil, and protection of the water quality. Through this chapter, the Town also seeks to minimize the development of hilltops and ridgelines wherever possible. ..
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Infrastructure Upgrades and Multi-Modal Transportation
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018Transportation Demand Management, Complete Streets
New York
Municipal
A particular element of Buffalo, New York’s Comprehensive Plan 2030 is to redesign and repurpose their transportation network. Their goal is to promote transportation policies and projects that will help create an economically and environmentally healthy region, reverse current negative economic, land use, social and demographic trends, foster growth in areas with existing infrastructure, and promote equitable services for all residents.
In the first four years of the program, there are over 40 projects aimed at upgrading existing infrastru..
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State of New York County Law – Reforested Lands Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Land Acquisition, Open Space Preservation, Tree Preservation & Protection
New York
State
This section of the General Powers of Board Supervisors gives the Board supervisors the power to purchase, acquire, or accept by gift lands for the purposes of reforestation. The ordinance establishes the procedures for taxation and assessment of the land as well as financial assistance procedures. ..
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County of Cherokee Lighting Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, January 19, 2017Lighting
New York
Municipal
This ordinance places restrictions on lighting in order to protect the views of the “starry skies” and increase safety on the roads for drivers...
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Town of Gardiner Zoning Purposes Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Comprehensive Planning, Zoning
New York
Municipal
Sections 220-1, § 220-2, and § 220-3 of the Town Code for the Town of Gardiner provide an introduction to the Town’s zoning ordinance. Chapter 220 states the title and the purpose of the zoning ordinance and acknowledges that the provisions of the ordinance are in accordance with the Town’s New Comprehensive Plan. Chapter 220 hereby establishes a new comprehensive zoning plan for the Town of Gardiner which is set forth in the text, tables and map that constitutes this chapter. The plan is adopted for all the purposes set forth in Article 16 ..
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Town of Irondequoit River Harbor District Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Economic Development, Zoning, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
The River Harbor District, as laid out in Article XXIV of the Town Code, is designed to provide a suitable character and stable environment for the establishment and maintenance of water-dependent and/or water-enhanced uses and activities along the east bank of the Genesee River near the Port of Rochester. The district is also designed to promote appropriate residential and economic development and to improve public access to the riverfront. Other goals of the district include protection of the unique and sensitive environmental features that e..
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Village of Croton-on-Hudson Water Supply Protection
Date Added: Wednesday, May 3, 2017Aquifer Protection, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Drinking Water Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
The Water Supply Protection Code of the Village of Croton-on-Hudson establishes protective land use regulations for the watershed affecting well fields. It defines the three zones affecting the quality of the aquifer and provides a degree of regulation or management for each zone in order to protect the water supply source from contamination. The three-zone system is superimposed on existing land use zones, and requirements of the underlying districts shall continue to apply, except in the event of a conflict, where the more restrictive require..
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Town of Blooming Grove Landscaping & Environmental Requirements; Performance Standards Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 5, 2017Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Landscaping, Local Environmental Law, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Landscaping and Environmental Requirements; Performance Standards ordinance requires conformance with standards for noise; vibration; smoke, dust, and other atmospheric pollutants; odors; toxic or noxious matter; radiation and electromagnetic interference; fire, explosive and heat; liquid and solid wastes; traffic and lighting. The planning board may vary or waive minimum landscape requirements and erosion and sedimentation control due to special characteristics of the project or site...
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Town of Batavia Disposal of Solid Waste Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017Sewage Management
New York
Municipal
This law outlines the application procedures for person applying to receive a permit to deposit fill on his or her land for purposes outlined within this section. ..
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Town of Gardiner Notification Requirements for Applications Relating to Certain Land Use Approvals Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Site Plan Approval
New York
Municipal
The Town of Gardiner Notification Requirement for Land Use Approvals outlines the procedure for applications for land use approvals and zoning changes as they affect neighborhood property owners, the Town Board, the Planning Board, and the Zoning Board of Appeals. The law provides that notices of public hearings must be printed in local newspapers and lists the time frames in which parties must be notified regarding the application and the public hearing. The law also includes what radius of property owners must be notified for the following ap..
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Replacing Paving with Trees
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018Low Impact Development & Green Infrastructure
New York
Municipal
Nassau County suggests planting medium height plants and trees on paved medians. Nassau goes further by promoting the use of double curbs to improve the aesthetics and allow rain to percolate into the ground, reducing runoff and improving water quality. These low impact development and green infrastructure policies will reduce sotrmwater runoff and improve water quality...
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City of Fayetteville Imposition of Development Impact Fees Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, August 27, 2016Impact Fees
New York
Municipal
Fayetteville has an impact fee statute which requires a developer to pay for engaging in development. This payment of this fee is designed to rebuild infrastructure or otherwise protect the environment in proportion to the developments impact on the community in relation to the impact the activity has on the environment. The ordinance has multiple exceptions for development which does not increase the housing units on a parcel...
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Town of Shelter Island Nature Preserve System
Date Added: Monday, April 17, 2017Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
The Town of Shelter Island Nature Preserve System is a regulation meant to supplement existing town regulations and procedures so that certain Town-owned and privately owned properties can be protected from inappropriate use and development. The Act is meant to protect the natural diversity that exists in natural areas that are being threatened by population growth and a developing economy. ..
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Village of Larchmont Coastal Zone Management Commission Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017Coastal Protection, Intermunicipal Agreements, Local Boards
New York
Municipal
The purpose of this statute is to further the common interests of the Town of Mamaroneck and the Village of Larchmont. That interest is to protect the local coastal zone and establish the Coastal Zone Management Commission to monitor and coordinate the implementation of the Local Waterfront Revitalization Program of the Town of Mamaroneck and the Village of Larchmont. This statute requires the Commission to consist of 11 members (five residents of Larchmont appointed by the Village of Larchmont, five residents of the unincorporated area of Mama..
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Town of Mamaroneck Erosion & Sediment Control Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Flood Prevention, Quality of Life, Stormwater Management, Watershed Protection
New York
Municipal
The intent of the enactment of the below regulations is to control and regulate land-disturbing activities to assure that best management practices are used which minimize water pollution, retain valuable topsoil and vegetation and prevent flooding, erosion and sedimentation. The Town therefore declares that the purpose of this chapter is to safeguard persons, protect property, prevent damage to the environment and promote the public welfare by guiding, regulating and controlling the design, construction, use and maintenance of any development ..
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Ordinance Concerning the Right to Farm in the Town of Woodstock
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016Right-to-Farm, Farmland Protection & Preservation
New York
Municipal
This ordinance authorizes the farmer’s right to farm in the town, thereby maintaining agricultural land as open space and maintaining a traditional livelihood of residents of the town...
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Town of Brookhaven Flood Damage Prevention Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, April 18, 2017Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Flood Prevention, Floodplain Regulations
New York
Municipal
This law attempts to minimize the amount of flood damage in the Town of Brookhaven by: (1) Regulating uses which are dangerous to health, safety and property due to water or erosion hazards, or which result in damaging increases in erosion or in flood heights or velocities, (2) Requiring that uses vulnerable to floods, including facilities which serve such uses, be protected against flood damage at the time of initial construction, (3) Controlling the alteration of natural floodplains, stream channels, and natural protective barriers which are ..
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Town of Eagle Wind Energy Conversion Facilities Siting Law
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Wind Energy
New York
Municipal
The Town of Eagle enacted a Wind Energy Conversion Facilities Siting Law in 2005. The law requires that construction be preceded by review, approval, and licensing and must fully comply with State Environmental Quality Review Act (SEQRA). When determining whether to issue license, town board shall consider approved site plan, aesthetic impact, location impact, physical impact, economic impact, and sociopolitical impact, and general health and welfare of community...
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Resource Protection and Open Space
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018Healthy Communities, Low Impact Development & Green Infrastructure
New York
Municipal
Marlborough is increasingly concerned about the quality of their water (most of the drinking water is supplied by private wells). To combat this, their comprehensive plan suggests maintaining and increasing the amount of vegetation adjacent to streams, revising regulations when necessary to allow the planning board to require information regarding water quality of proposed on-site wells, and better locating septic tanks to avoid as much concentration of nitrate in the drinking water as possible.
These policies will help to maintain the quali..
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Town of Malta Knolls Eleven Planned Development District
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017Development Standards, Planned Development Districts, Site Design Standards, Site Plan Approval
New York
Municipal
Chapter 167, § 167-27 provides specifications for the creation of a planned development district. These requirements include a newly created dwelling with approvals for water, sewage, drainage systems all with specified sizes and locations. Other requirements and restrictions on the developers are set forth as well...
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Town of Pawling Timber Harvesting Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Quality of Life, Timber Harvesting
New York
Municipal
This ordinance emphasizes the value of local woodlands and sets standards for harvesting activities that can cause soil erosion and sediment-laden runoff, including stream crossings, location of landings, hauls roads, and skid trails. Making the connection between timber harvesting practices, water quality, and human and ecological health, the ordinance prescribes methods for sustainable harvesting that consider slope steepness, distance of operations from streams, and the use of logging roads. ..
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Town of Irondequoit Open Space District Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017Open Space Preservation
New York
Municipal
The Open Space (OS) District permits recreational and open space uses that serve the residents and visitors to the Town and that generally preserve and enhance the unique aesthetic and environmental qualities of open space areas. This Chapter presents articulates the numerous goals of this district...
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Town of Eden Conservation Easements Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, May 4, 2017Land Acquisition, Open Space Preservation, Wildlife & Fish Habitat, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
Chapter 95 of the Town Code for the Town of Eden provides for the acquisition of interests or rights in real property to be used for the preservation of open space and areas which shall constitute a public purpose for which public funds may be expended or advanced after due notice and a public hearing by which the Town of Eden may acquire by purchase, gift, grant, bequest, devise, lease or otherwise the fee of any lesser interest, development right, easement, covenant or other contractual right necessary to acquire open space or open area. ..
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Village of Croton-on-Hudson Environmental Compliance Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, May 3, 2017Development Standards, Clustering & Cluster Development, Environmental Compliance, Site Design Standards, Site Plan Approval, Conservation Districts & Subdivisions
New York
Municipal
This law authorizes the village Planning Board, and other advisory boards within the Village of Croton-on-Hudson, to retain the services of an Environmental Consultant to review and consult the board(s) concerning development taking place within the village’s environmentally sensitive areas, and to assure that environmental compliance measures are followed. The law also describes the role and duties of the Environmental Consultant. ..
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Village of Croton-on-Hudson Trees Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, May 3, 2017Landscaping, Tree Preservation & Protection
New York
Municipal
The Village of Croton-on-Hudson Tree Ordinance provides requirements for minimum distances between trees and (1) other trees, (2) curbs and sidewalks, (3) street corners and hydrants, and (4) utilities. Topping of trees and removal of healthy trees is prohibited. A tree removal permit will be required before removing: (1) any tree eight inches or more (diameter at breast height or DBH) on any parcel of land capable of being subdivided under the zoning provisions applicable to the district in which the parcel is situated or on any parcel of land..
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Village of Irvington, Accessory Apartment Regulation
Date Added: Wednesday, August 16, 2023Accessory Uses
New York
Municipal
The Village of Irvington is part of the Plus One ADU Program. Currently Irvington allows up to one accessory dwelling unit (ADU) per home in all single-family residential zones, upon approval of application by the Planning Board. No more than 50 accessory apartment special permits can be in existence at one time, and this number may not be varied by the Zoning Board of Appeals. No permit shall be granted until the structure in its present size has been in existence for 5 years. The permit is valid for 3 years. The accessory apartment must be lo..
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Town of Kent Enforcement Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, February 24, 2016Enforcement, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
The Town of Kent’s Freshwater Wetlands ordinance contains enforcement provisions which specifically related to the protection of this natural resource. ..
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Village of Croton-on-Hudson Erosion and Sediment Control Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, February 10, 2016Erosion & Sedimentation Control
New York
Municipal
Chapter 118 of the Municipal Code for the Village of Croton-on-Hudson is designed to prevent erosion and to protect property, roadways, and waterways from the negative effects of erosion, including deposition on roadways, creation of gullies, flooding, clogging of sewers, pollution, the increase of weeds in waterways, and the death of fish. ..
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Municipal Code, Chapter 150 Zoning, Article IIA Environmental Protection Overlay Districts, Section 150-9.20 EPOD 3 Steep Slope Protection District
Date Added: Tuesday, May 23, 2017Steep Slope Protection, Zoning
New York
Municipal
ep Slope Protection District sets forth regulations designed to minimize the impacts of development activities on steep slopes, including soil erosion and sedimentation, destruction of vegetation, increased stormwater runoff, and landslides. Regulated activities within the District include the clearing of or construction on land; the construction of sewage disposal systems; filling, cutting, or excavation; and discharge of stormwater and/or construction and placement of stormwater runoff systems. In order to be permitted to undertake such regul..
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Accessory Uses of Land in New York State
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016Accessory Uses , Local Boards, Zoning
New York
State
Accessory Uses of Land in New York State, by Jeffery B. Durocher, explains how local communities take different approaches to permitting accessory uses of land, using the test of whether the proposed use is incidental and customary to the primary use of the land. The article also explains that religious and educational uses are usually permitted in residential areas because they contribute to the general welfare...
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Town of Somers Planned Hamlet (PH) District
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016Comprehensive Planning, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Town of Somers created the Planned Hamlet (PH) District pursuant to its Comprehensive Master Plan, to provide the opportunity and encouragement for the creation of a village-like development cluster containing a combination of housing, jobs and other nonresidential uses linked to, and supportive of, neighboring retail shopping areas. This ordinance sets forth the principal and accessory uses in the district, the approvals process, and the design guidelines applied in the district...
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Town of North Hempstead Planned Unit Development District
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Comprehensive Planning, Subdivision Regulations
New York
Municipal
Chapter 79, Article XD requires certain zoning specifications for The Planned Unit Development District (PUD). These specifications relate to: landscaping, water conservation, utilities, sewage, disposal, garbage and refuse facilities, signs and fences and other aspects of the PUD. In erecting the development, building’s population, density, height, plot area, setbacks, lot coverage, and parking facilities must all be considered. ..
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Town of Gardiner Development in Floodplains Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Flood Prevention, Floodplain Regulations, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The Development in Floodplains ordinance in the Town of Gardiner requires that land uses on floodplains be within the boundaries permitted by the Town of Gardiner Flood Insurance Study, with some exceptions. Development in floodplain areas is heavily regulated and variances are granted via permits. Variance permits are granted based on factors such as: alternative means to development, good sufficient cause, safety, and encroachments against property...
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New York State Land Use Enabling Acts
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Land Use Planning, Local Governance, State Land Use Law, Zoning
New York
State
Parallel provisions of New York State’s Town, Village, and General City Law grant local governments powers to zone similar to those granted by the Standard State Zoning Enabling Act (SZEA) promulgated by the U.S. Department of Commerce in the 1920s. New York State encourages, but does not require, local governments to adopt comprehensive plans, and state statutes enumerate 15 topics that may be included in comprehensive plans. Local governments have considerable additional powers to regulate local land use under the home rule provisions of the ..
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Town of Greenburgh Subdivision Regulations
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017Open Space Preservation, Recreational Uses, Subdivision Regulations, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
Chapter 250 of Greenburgh’s Town Code regulates subdivisions. Among other requirements, the law forces the developer to provide land for recreation and open space within a subdivision...
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City of Auburn Solid Waste Recycling Program
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017Recycling
New York
Municipal
This law outlines the recycling program in Auburn, New York...
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Village of Bronxville Planning Board Rule of Reason
Date Added: Wednesday, April 12, 2017Local Boards
New York
Municipal
The Village of Bronxville Planning Board and Design Review Committee is guided by a rule of reason when discharging its duties. Provisions the board follows are in accordance with legislative intent and are applied on the basis of reasonableness, consistency, practicability, fundamental fairness and interest of the applicant and Village...
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How Can a Community Create Affordable Housing Opportunities?
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016Affordable Housing
New York
State
New York does not allow municipalities to use zoning laws to discriminate on race or socioeconomic standing. Analysis of case law shows a trend of encouraging development of affordable housing, though New York does not expressly forbid exclusionary zoning...
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Town of Guilderland Site Plan Approval Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Site Plan Approval
New York
Municipal
This law outlines the application procedures required for site plan approval in the town of Guilderland, New York. The topics covered by the law include: authorization to grant or deny site plan approval; time of submittal; preapplication sketch; application for preliminary site plan approval; factors for consideration; modification; action on preliminary application; application for final detailed site plan approval; and action on the final detailed site plan application. ..
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New York State Town Law: § 282. Court Review
Date Added: Thursday, March 2, 2017Local Boards, Local Governance
New York
State
This law describes the procedure for appealing an adverse decision made by a town zoning board. All appeals are reviewed by a special term of the supreme court in the manner provided by article seventy-eight of the civil practice law and rules. ..
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Reduce Dependency on Automobiles by Promoting Walking and Bicycling
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018Pedestrian Oriented Design (POD), Healthy Communities, Bicycle Infrastructure
New York
Municipal
Niagara County, New York’s Public Health and Safety Chapter of their Comprehensive Plan outlines their goal to create safe, healthy, and walkable communities. They recognize health and safety of communities as one of the most important but overlooked aspects of a high quality of life. It stimulates the local economy and increases the variance and character of a community.
One objective to accomplish this goal is to reduce the community’s dependency on automotive transportation by increasing the network of pedestrian and bicycle trails. To op..
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Town of Brookhaven Central Pine Barrens District
Date Added: Tuesday, April 18, 2017Wildlife & Fish Habitat, Zoning, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
The Town of Brookhaven, New York, uses its zoning code to prevent floods, protect floodplains and other sensitive environmental areas. The zoning contains the Pine Barrens Credit Program, a transfer of development rights program, to maintain the value in lands designated for preservation and protection. Additionally, the program allows environmentally sensitive development to occur in an efficient and orderly fashion, which protects the quality and quantity of waters and the integrity of the Suffolk County Central Pine Barrens ecosystem(s). The..
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Soil Contamination Strategies
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018Brownfields
New York
Municipal
Syracuse, New York created a Comprehensive Plan with a singular focus on sustainability. One of the objectives within their efforts to increase sustainability is the remediation of brownfields. The remediation of brownfields can improve environmental conditions, public health, and the local economy.
Syracuse has partnered with several government agencies, including the New York DEC and the U.S. E.P.A, to design brownfield remediation plans. These plans work to evaluate, inventory, and plan for the redevelopment of brownfield areas. Syracus..
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Town of Mendon Nonconforming Uses & Structures Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017Nonconforming Uses, Zoning
New York
Municipal
This law creates regulations and prohibitions concerning nonconforming uses and structures in the Town of Mendon, NY. ..
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Town of Blooming Grove Stormwater Management Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 5, 2017Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Stormwater Management
New York
Municipal
Chapter 201 of the Town Code for the Town of Blooming Grove provides for use of structural and nonstructural practices designed to reduce stormwater runoff and mitigate adverse impacts on property, natural resources and the environment. The General Provisions are divided into several areas: Findings; Purpose; Statutory authority; Applicability; Exemptions. The sections of the Stormwater Control provision are: Definitions; Pollution prevention plans; Performance and design criteria; Maintenance and repair of facilities; Administration and enfo..
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Town of Clarkstown Training Requirements for Appointed Board Members Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017Local Boards, Mandatory Training
New York
Municipal
This law requires members of planning and zoning boards of appeal in Clarkstown to receive training related to their position. It follows the Rockland Municipal Planning Federation’s sample law...
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Ellenville, NY Cluster Development Affordable Housing
Date Added: Thursday, August 3, 2023Clustering & Cluster Development, Zoning
New York
Municipal
Cluster developments with 10 or more housing units must designate at least 10% of units to be affordable. To be eligible to rent or purchase the household’s annual income must be between 80% and 120% of Ulster County AMI. Compliance with this requirement can only be met through construction of the affordable units on-site. Upon approval of the Village Board, all, or a portion of the fees for planning, zoning, and building related to the affordable units may be waived. ..
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Village of Port Chester Waterfront Consistency Review Law
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017Local Environmental Law, Waterfront Revitalization
New York
Municipal
The purpose of Port Chester’s Waterfront Consistency Review Law is to provide consistent review procedures in the coastal area. It creates a waterfront commission, the duties of which include reviewing Coastal Assessment Forms (CAF) to determine whether proposed actions are consistent with the Local Waterfront Revitalization Program (LWRP) by incorporating environmental factors and consideration of coastal resources into the village planning and decision-making processes...
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Amendment to Town of Saugerties, New York Zoning Code Chapter 245
Date Added: Monday, June 18, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The amendment to the Town of Saugerties, New York Zoning Code allows large scale solar energy facilities via special use permits. The site for such facility shall be at least the minimum area required in the zoning district and the total area covered by the facility and all related appurtenances shall not exceed 70% of the gross area of the site. The required coverage as set for in the Schedule of Area and Bulk Regulations (Sec. 245-12) shall not apply to solar energy facilities where a solar array is designed and located so that the underlying..
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The City of Utica Uses and/or Structures Rendered Nonconforming Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, May 23, 2017Land Use Planning, Zoning, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
The City of Utica described the zoning procedures in place if any use or structure became nonconforming within the Land Conservation District. Even if the structure conforms in its district, it will be considered a nonconforming use or structure in the Land Conservation District. Existing nonconforming uses and/or structures shall not be expanded. Substantial improvements of nonconforming uses shall not be allowed, irrespective of the need for the improvements. Nonconforming structures within the one-hundred-year flood plain will be required to..
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Town of Amherst Conservation Easement Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, March 19, 2017Land Acquisition, Conservation Districts & Subdivisions
New York
Municipal
This ordinance allows the town board to take easements for the public use. It sets out a procedure to take the land and provide for compensation for the taking. There are penalties if the taking is done in other manners. ..
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Town of Malta Historic Preservation Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017Historic Preservation, Landmarks & Historical Districts
New York
Municipal
Article XV, Chapter 167 of the Town Code for the Town of Malta regulates the use of historic areas of the town. The Chapter declares the protection and enhancement of landmarks and historic districts as a necessary matter of public policy for the promotion of economic, cultural and general welfare of the Town...
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Town of Mamaroneck Tree Cutting Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, April 17, 2017Tree Preservation & Protection, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation
New York
Municipal
Chapter 207 of the Town Code for the Town of Mamaroneck seeks to correct barren and unsightly conditions caused by the destruction or damage to shade, ornamental and evergreen trees and plants and the indiscriminate and excessive cutting of these trees in subdivisions and on private property. This Chapter sets out regulations on the removal of trees...
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New York State Town Law – Board of Appeals Procedure Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Local Boards, Zoning
New York
State
This statute establishes the procedure that the Zoning Board of Appeals is required to follow. The procedure includes holding meetings that are open to the public and requiring the minutes of the meetings to become public record. The statute also establishes the appellate jurisdiction of the Zoning Board of Appeals and creates the procedure and time requirements for appeals to be filed...
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New York State Town Law: § 261-b. Incentive Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, August 28, 2016Incentive Zoning
New York
State
This law grants incentive zoning power to Towns in New York State. Incentives (also known as bonuses) are defined as: “adjustments to the permissible population density, area, height, open space, use, or other provisions of a zoning ordinance or local law for a specific purpose authorized by the town board. The law also discusses such topics as the authority and purposes of Incentive Zoning, and the implementation of Incentive Zoning. ..
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Town of Big Flats Aquifer Protection Overlay District Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017Aquifer Protection, Overlay District, Zoning, Drinking Water Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
This ordinance is designed to protect the local drinking water in the interest of public health and safety. The town is creating an Aquifer Protection Overlay District (APOD) to create districts in which certain uses of water are permitted. There are also various uses of water that are and are not permitted which vary by the districts that are set forth in the ordinance...
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New York State Town Law: § 272-a. Town Comprehensive Plan
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016New York
State
This ordinance authorizes Town Boards in New York State to create comprehensive plans. Legislative findings and intent are given along with a description of the content of a town comprehensive plan, preparation of such a plan, referrals of comprehensive plans, public hearings and notice, adoption of town comprehensive plans, environmental review of plans, agricultural review and coordination, periodic review, effect of adoption of the town comprehensive plan and regulations for filing a town comprehensive plan. ..
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New York City Housing Development Corporation Act
Date Added: Thursday, March 2, 2017Local Boards, Local Governance
New York
Municipal
Legislation creating and empowering the New York City Housing Development Corporation. ..
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New York State Town Law – Official Map, Establishment Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Official Map, State Land Use Law, Zoning
New York
State
This ordinance authorizes Town Boards in New York State to create official maps, which are to include streets, highways, parks, and drainage systems, by towns located in New York State. ..
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Babylon, NY Flood Damage Protection
Date Added: Thursday, April 12, 2018Healthy Communities, Disaster Mitigation
New York
Municipal
The purpose of the Flood Damage Protection legislation is to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare, and to minimize public and private losses due to flood conditions.
The City of Babylon created a floodplain development permit which requires all construction in areas designed by the city as “special flood hazards.” Applications for these permits require certificates from a licensed professional engineer or architect showing that they meet the floodproofing requirements established in the legislation. The local administrator..
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Air Quality Liability
Date Added: Wednesday, June 20, 2018Transportation & Land Use Planning, Healthy Communities, Vulnerable Populations
New York
Municipal
Buffalo holds not only violators of the ordinances responsible and liable for infringements, but they also hold owners, proprietors, lessors, agents, tenants, managers, superintendents, captains, etc. responsible and liable for any unlawful emission...
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New York State General City Law: Chapter 21; Article 3 Official Maps and Planning Boards; § 28-a. City Comprehensive Plan
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016Comprehensive Planning
New York
Municipal
This law authorizes city governments in New York to develop comprehensive plans and to regulate land use for the purpose of protecting the public health, safety and general welfare of their citizens. The law identifies several items which these comprehensive plans should include: (a) General statements of goals, objectives, principles, policies, and standards upon which proposals for the immediate and long-range enhancement, growth and development of the city are based, (b) Consideration of regional needs and the official plans of other governm..
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Town of Mamaroneck Recreation District Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017Recreational Uses, Zoning
New York
Municipal
Chapter 240 of Mamaroneck’s Town Code creates the Recreation District and describes the qualities of such district...
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Village of Croton-on-Hudson Greenway Compact Plan Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, May 3, 2017Intermunicipal Agreements, Local Boards
New York
Municipal
The Village of Croton-on-Hudson has become a participating community in the intermunicipal agreement, the Greenway Compact Plan, whose policies, principles and guides are adopted from compendiums based on tourism and economic development, the maintenance of the Hudson River waterfront, building livable downtowns, growing smarter together, and patterns for the county’s preservation. Where appropriate, new land use laws should conform to the standards of the Greenway Compact Plan, but at no time should this intermunicipal agreement limit the auth..
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Town of Brookhaven Required Attendance at Public Meetings for Members of Planning Board & Zoning Board of Appeals Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, January 25, 2017Local Boards, Local Governance
New York
Municipal
The Town of Brookhaven created this local law to establish minimum attendance requirements for all Zoning Board of Appeals and Planning Board members...
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Land Use Law Center Strategies for Sustainable, Economic Development Checklist
Date Added: Saturday, April 22, 2017Economic Development, Land Use Planning
New York
Municipal
The Land Use Law Center created this checklist to assist municipalities in planning for sustainable, economic development. The goal is encourage use of strategies that encourage development that is environmentally conscious and economically prosperous. The checklist contains guidance on improvements in eighteen different areas, such as developing code for transit-oriented development districts and encouraging neighborhood-organized improvements.
*This document was prepared with funds provided by the New York State Department of State und..
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Land Use Law Center Economic Development Policy Statement
Date Added: Saturday, April 22, 2017Economic Development
New York
Municipal
This draft document is to assist the cities and villages participating in the Mayors’ Redevelopment Roundtable regarding the initiation of a strategic sustainable economic development planning effort. This resolution identifies the objectives of the economic development policies to be considered by Roundtable communities and outlines the process to be followed at the local level. Its purposes are to set the stage for each community to create and adopt an economic development policy as a supplement to its comprehensive plan and, by acting in co..
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Promoting Public Transportation
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018Smart Growth
New York
Municipal
As part of their plan to overhaul their transportation network, Buffalo plans to use mixed-use corridor development and other land use policies that complement and promote the use of public transit options, reducing dependency on individual automobiles and parking. This plan works well with their established public transit options which they can build and improve upon to complement the mixed-use development in a symbiotic fashion. One of their biggest projects in their 2030 plans is implementation of high quality public transit between downtown..
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Policies Encouraging Farmers Markets
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018Healthy Communities, Farmers Markets
New York
Municipal
Ithaca, New York a diverse and flourishing local food community with a deep and enduring interest in organic foods, sustainable local agriculture, cooperative food markets, community gardens, agricultural education, and a more equitable local food system. Despite this solid foundation, Ithaca has noticed that there is more work to be done. Primarily, this food needs to be made accessible and affordable to all members of the population.
Ithaca’s Comprehensive Plan established a goal to locally integrate the production, processing, and distrib..
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Town of Dover Aquifer Overlay District Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, March 19, 2017Aquifer Protection, Overlay District
New York
Municipal
The Town of Dover aquifer overlay district ordinance regulates activities by performance standards. These standards pertain to the use of fertilizers and pesticides, wastewater treatment systems, sediment generation, and the control of other chemicals that have the potential to adversely impact aquifers...
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Village of Port Jefferson Wireless Communications Towers and Antennas Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016Communications
New York
Municipal
This law places regulations and restrictions on the construction of wireless communications towers and antennas within the Village of Port Jefferson. ..
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City of Saratoga Springs New York Zoning Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, May 31, 2017Stormwater Management, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The purpose of the City of Saratoga Springs Zoning Ordinance is to encourage physical development while promoting public health, safety, and welfare. The ordinance is intended to classify, designate, and regulate the location and use of buildings, structures, and land for agricultural, residential, commercial, industrial, or other uses, and to divide the City into districts best suited to carry out the regulations set forth in the General City Law and provide for their enforcement. The regulations and district boundaries identified in the Zonin..
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Town of Canadice Wind Energy Conversion System Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Wind Energy
New York
Municipal
The Town of Canadice enacted a law to regulate wind energy conversion systems (WECS) in 2006. This law establishes regulations for industrial, commercial, and residential WECS. The law establishes requirements related to issues including: setbacks, height, aesthetics, wildlife and noise. The law also has provisions related to deconstruction and removal of inactive wind turbines...
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New York State Constitution Article IX. Local Governments
Date Added: Thursday, January 26, 2017Local Boards, Local Governance
New York
State
Article IX of the Constitution of the State of New York defines the peripheral rights delegated to local government. The local government shall have a legislative body, controls the election planning elected by the people or appointment, allocate funding for the local government, and confer powers to the local government regarding enactments of laws and statutes...
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Town of Somers Site Plan Review Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Site Plan Approval
New York
Municipal
The Town of Somers delegated the authority to review and approve site plans to the Planning Board. The board may prescribe conditions to encourage the most appropriate use of the land taking into account of among other items open spaces, environmentally sensitive lands, trees and vegetation. ..
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Town of Wethersfield Wind Energy Conversion Device/Farm Licensing, Siting & Design Regulations & Requirements Law.
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017Wind Energy
New York
Municipal
In 2006, the Town of Wethersfield adopted the "Town of Wethersfield Wind Energy Conversion Device/Farm Licensing, Siting and Design Regulations and Requirements Law.” The law establishes numerous requirements related to setbacks, safety, sound, shadow flicker, wildlife impacts, farming impacts, etc. Wethersfield requires applicants to obtain a license in order to operate the wind farm. This license can be renewed every five years, with fee relating to megawatt capacity...
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City-Wide Design Guidelines and Standards
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018Healthy Communities, Traffic Calming & Safety
New York
Municipal
Section 120-157(E) of Rochester’s Zoning Code encourages structures and public spaces to be pedestrian-oriented and promote safe pedestrian movement, access and circulation. Additionally, if a service alley is available, garages and loading areas should only be accessed via the alley.
This ordinance increases pedestrian safety and encourages people to walk as a primary form of transportation which will help to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
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Town of North Castle Wetlands Purpose Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017Adult Entertainment, Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Scenic Resources, Stormwater Management, Wildlife & Fish Habitat, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Drinking Water Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
This law states the Town Board’s rationale for protecting wetlands within the Town of North Castle, NY. Some of the stated reasons include: the import role the wetlands have in cleaning the water supply, their function as a habitat for plant, fish and wildlife species, their role in absorbing stormwater, and their importance as a scenic resource. ..
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Town of Batavia Wellhead Protection Overlay Zone Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, March 23, 2017Overlay District, Zoning, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
This law is designed to protect those areas of the town which are important to ensuring a safe and healthful drinking water supply for the Batavia area, local residents, employees and the general public through the preservation of the town's groundwater sources. The designation of two Wellhead Protection Areas (WPA) within the Wellhead Protection Overlay Zone and the careful regulation of activities with these zones will reduce the potential for groundwater contamination. The Wellhead Protection Overlay Zone will preserve and maintain the exist..
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City of Peekskill Watershed Protection & Enforcement Officer
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017Environmental Compliance, Local Boards, Local Governance, Watershed Protection, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection
New York
Municipal
This ordinance establishes the position of a Watershed Protection and Enforcement Officer and sets out the membership requirements and the duties entrusted to the position, with the goal of ensuring that the Environmental Conservation Law and the Penal Law of the State of New York are adhered...
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Programs for Brownfield Remediation
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018Brownfields
New York
Municipal
The City of Newburgh, New York hosts a range of brownfield sites due to its industrial legacy. Newburgh currently has identified eight municipally owned brownfields, and there is potential for others existing on both private and public lands throughout the city. The perceived or actual risks of remediation can have far-reaching and negative side effects; brownfields have been shown to deter future growth, increase urban sprawl, lower the economic value of surrounding communities, and pose a threat to the health of local communities. Fortunately..
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Town of Babylon Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
In its Zoning Chapter, the Town of Babylon does not dedicate any specific section to the implementation of solar energy systems. The Code does permit solar energy production facilities that are not less than 50 acres, subject to restrictions placed by the Planning Board in two Residence Districts, A and C, as well as the Town’s Business District. In terms of new architectural design requirements, developers and owners are permitted to install solar roof panels. The Chapter, however, does not describe specific requirements for solar energy syste..
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State of New York Training Requirements for Zoning Board & Planning Board Members
Date Added: Wednesday, January 25, 2017Local Boards, Local Governance
New York
State
This Bill requires land use training zoning board and planning board members in New York State...
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City of White Plains Zoning Code § 4.4.21.2-4; Solar Access; Solar Energy Systems; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018Solar Energy, Zoning
New York
Municipal
The City of White Plains’ zoning ordinance includes solar access provisions that require all approving agencies to consider access to sunlight for present and potential solar electric systems, both on- and off-site, as well as structure siting, orientation and landscaping when reviewing any application. Further, the provisions prohibit new construction on any lot that would block access to sunlight between the hours of 9:00 AM and 3:00 PM for approved solar electric systems except by permission from the board of appeals if the applicant shows t..
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Town of Malta Department of Building & Planning Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017Local Boards, Site Design Standards, Site Plan Approval, Zoning
New York
Municipal
Chapter 3 of the Town Code for the Town of Malta creates the Department of Building and Planning in order to provide for the efficient administration and enforcement of laws relating to planning, zoning, fire safety and prevention, building construction, the environment, development, master planning and such other areas the Town Board may deem appropriate...
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State of New York Series I: Basic Tools and Techniques Issue Number 3 Local Boards and Practices
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016Land Use Planning, Local Boards
New York
State
The New York state legislature has created a system of local boards to govern the use and conservation of land and the quality of life as it is affected by land use. The local legislature adopts zoning and land use regulations; after a zoning code is adopted by this first group, a zoning board of appeals is created to perform quasi-judicial and administrative functions; and a planning board is created to perform advisory and administrative functions related to community planning and land use decision-making...
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