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Land Use Law Center Streamlined Review & Approval Process
Date Added: Saturday, April 22, 2017
Streamlining    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More


County of Kitsap Hearing Examiner - Alternative Dispute Resolution Provision
Date Added: Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Alternative Dispute Resolution    
State: Not Applicable
The County Commissioners gave the hearing examiner the authority to include pre- and post-hearing mediations. Hearing examiners conduct quasi-judicial proceedings to resolve land-use disputes. .. Read More

Healthy Plan Making Integrating Health Into the Comprehensive Planning Process: An Analysis of Seven Case Studies and Recommendations for Change (APA)
Date Added: Wednesday, July 11, 2018
Comprehensive Planning, Healthy Communities    
State: Not Applicable
The purpose of this document is to identify specific tools and strategies used when incorporating public health policies and goals and the processes of implementing these goals. Based on a study in 2010 by the American Planning Association, the organization generated a list of strategies used in the planning process to integrate public health. This study provides an in depth, qualitative case study analysis of how public health became a part of the planning process” and background on what creates successful policies... Read More


Land Use Law Center Strategies for Scattered Site & Infill Development Checklist
Date Added: Friday, April 21, 2017
Land Use Planning, Urban Renewal, Vacant & Distressed Properties, Streamlining    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Project Turnkey
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Affordable Housing    
State: Not Applicable
An Oregon state-level program to acquire hotels and motels for conversion to non-congregate shelter during Covid-19 and eventually become permanent affordable housing. Oregon’s Legislature allocated $65 million¬–including CARES Act Coronavirus Relief Funds, FEMA, Emergency Solutions Grants–$30 million for eight counties and tribal communities impacted by wildfires, and $35 to the other 28 counties of Oregon. Additionally, $9.7 million was allotted for additional projects. Through a competitive grant process, $71.7 million has been approved for .. Read More

City of Chicago Rooftop Solar PV System Application Process; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Saturday, January 6, 2018
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
The City of Chicago has made installation of both small rooftop solar PV systems (<13.44kw) and large rooftop solar PV systems (those generating greater than 13.44kw) easier than ever before by easing restrictions and streamlining processes, saving time and design costs. Applicants for small rooftop systems can now access the City’s Easy Permit Process (EPP) where qualifying projects can receive same-day permit approvals at reduced fees. For projects that meet the Easy Permit Process (EPP) requirements, the permitting process was cut down from .. Read More

Residential Infill Pilot Program 2.0
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Affordable Housing , Density, Infill    
State: Not Applicable
Created the Residential Infill Pilot Program 2.0 to encourage residential infill development within the city. This program aims to promote multi-family development within traditionally single-family neighborhoods to add affordable units, increase housing choice, increase density, maintain scale and character of neighborhoods, and more. This plan will apply to single-family districts and outlines the permitted number and style of units depending on zone and lot size... Read More

Village of Croton-on-Hudson Unified Solar Application; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Saturday, January 6, 2018
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Penn Future's Solar Installation Guidebook
Date Added: Tuesday, June 19, 2018
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Penn Future’s Western PA Solar Installation Guidebook provides information on how to handle zoning and permitting solar energy in one’s municipality. Section B contains a model zoning ordinance. The ordinance defines a “building-mounted system” as one “attached to any part or type of roof on a building or structure that has an occupancy permit . . . and that is either the principal structure or an accessory structure . . . .” The ordinance defines a “ground-mounted system” as one “mounted on a structure, pole or series of poles constructed spec.. Read More

City of Bend Development Code
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017
Pre-Application & Consensus Building    
State: Not Applicable
Three separate provisions in the Bend Development Code allow for moments in the process where the applicant and the public are involved early in the decision-making process. A preliminary meeting for applicants dealing with complex applications helps them to identify likely issues in the process. In-depth public meetings to educate the public read together with the section authorizing a steering committee to represent the public and recommend refinements in the plan development and approval process creates a unique opportunity to be heard and.. Read More

New York’s Second Land Use System: A Description of New York City Land Use Law
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016
Land Use Planning, Local Boards, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

Guidance for Developing Watershed Implementation Plans in Illinois
Date Added: Wednesday, November 4, 2015
Watershed Planning, Watershed Protection    
State: Not Applicable
This Watershed Implementation Plan (WIP) “Guidance Document” is designed to provide tools for watershed planning groups and in turn, devise a comprehensive WIP for their watershed. The guide provides for what should be in a WIP, as well as a format that will help to improve consistency among WIPs developed throughout Illinois. The Guide addresses water quality through examination of its chemical, biological, and physical/habitat integrity... Read More

Seattle Food Action Plan
Date Added: Tuesday, July 17, 2018
Land Use Planning, Local Food Production, Healthy Communities, Urban Farming & Community Gardens    
State: Not Applicable
The city adopted the “Seattle Food Action Plan” in 2013, created by the Office of Sustainability and Environment, that lays out specific strategies to get more healthy food to more Seattle residents. This plan is aimed at expanding opportunities for people to grow and procure healthy food in the city, enhancing the regional economy, and reducing food-related waste. The Food Action Plan involves many departments of the city, including the Human Services Department, responsible for developing community gardens to provide meal programs for childre.. Read More

Local Food Supply: A Chapter of the Marquette County Comprehensive Plan
Date Added: Tuesday, July 17, 2018
Comprehensive Planning, Local Food Production, Healthy Communities, Zoning, Urban Farming & Community Gardens    
State: Not Applicable
The County of Marquette added a chapter to its Comprehensive Plan entitled Local Food Supply as a way to expand the local economy through increased local food production and to enhance the health of residents through better access to affordable, healthy foods. Some of the policies enacted via this Local Food Supply Plan include amending the zoning code to allow for small scale agricultural uses in residential zones, establishing community gardens, developing educational opportunities to teach the importance of local food production, supporting .. Read More


Berkeley votes for historic housing change: an end to single-family zoning
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Affordable Housing , Zoning, Density    
State: Not Applicable
Berkeley’s zoning code was amended to eliminate all single-family zones and replace them with multi-family zones, allowing for development of duplexes, triplexes, and fourplexes to alleviate the city’s housing strain. This is estimated to add an additional 9,000 housing units in the next several years. Berkeley was nationally known for being the “birthplace of exclusionary zoning,” and the town decided it was time to address the issue. The new units will match existing neighborhood style while also maintaining historic character... Read More

Austin Healthy Food Access Initiative
Date Added: Tuesday, July 17, 2018
Transportation & Land Use Planning, Healthy Communities, Zoning, Urban Farming & Community Gardens, Vulnerable Populations    
State: Not Applicable
This initiative began in 2015 with an American Planning Association Plan4Health grant to address access to healthy food in the North Central area of Austin, Texas. The City, through its Office of Sustainability, created a Food Planning Pilot Program focused on priority populations who have historically struggled to find healthy, fresh foods at affordable prices. These populations include school children who qualify for free lunches, immigrants, refugees, and other struggling low-income groups. In response to the City Council’s Resolution in 201.. Read More

City of Albuquerque Land Use Facilitation Program
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017
Pre-Application & Consensus Building    
State: Not Applicable
Created in 1994 to encourage communication between the applicants proposing land use projects and residents that would be impacted by proposed projects, Albuquerque’s Land Use Facilitation Program provides an opportunity for residents and applicants to exchange information, ask questions, and discuss concerns about proposed projects... Read More

City of Charlotte Development Approval Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017
Pre-Application & Consensus Building    
State: Not Applicable
A public notification process is formalized in the development process for certain land uses to engage the public in a heightened fashion and consider their suggestions before the process is finalized... Read More

City of Boise Development Impact Fee Ordinance - Alternative Dispute Resolution Provision
Date Added: Wednesday, February 3, 2016
Alternative Dispute Resolution    
State: Not Applicable
A mediation option is provided as part of the planning and zoning public hearing process of the city in accordance with Section 67-6510 of the Idaho Code. The cost of the first mediation session is paid by the city; if additional meetings are necessary, the parties agree to fee division. Mediation may be requested by Boise City Planning and Zoning Commission, City Council, the applicant, or other affected person and is voluntary unless it is initiated by the City, in which case, one session is mandatory. Hearings associated with appeal and ap.. Read More

City of Bend Land Use Review & Procedures Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Site Plan Approval    
State: Not Applicable
The Bend Land Use Review and Procedures Ordinance requires developers to consult and plan with the City and the public in order to obtain development permits, and in so doing forces development to comply with zoning and land use regulations as outlined in the city’s comprehensive plan. .. Read More

Form-Based Codes: Lessons Learned from a Mount Holly, NJ Case Study
Date Added: Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Transit Oriented Development (TOD), Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Form-based code merge design specifications for land development with transportation elements in order to attain the desired built environment and encourages a mix of uses and building types while emphasizing form and function. It governs building massing, streetscapes, and parking locations to promote development or redevelopment. Form-based codes were implemented in municipalities, including Mount Holly Township, throughout New Jersey as a part of the Mobility and Community Form Initiative, which is sponsored by the New Jersey Department of T.. Read More

Health in the Development Review Process
Date Added: Tuesday, July 10, 2018
Comprehensive Planning, Healthy Communities    
State: Not Applicable
This article discusses how design strategies of roads, buildings and public can be used to incorporate health. The document is split into four sections which discuss the detailed direction on how communities can consider their individuals must take into account the specific needs of the environment and what direction planners must take to generate a healthy community. The first section discusses how a community can use their comprehensive plan to envision and ensure healthy lifestyles by incorporating the importance of health into the planning .. Read More

Village of Croton-on-Hudson Water Supply Protection Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, May 3, 2017
Coastal Protection, Development Standards, Site Plan Approval, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Reduce Dependency on Automobiles by Promoting Walking and Bicycling
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018
Pedestrian Oriented Design (POD), Healthy Communities, Bicycle Infrastructure    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More


Grocery Store Attraction Strategies
Date Added: Tuesday, July 10, 2018
Healthy Communities, Food Deserts    
State: Not Applicable
Lower income communities can have difficulties accessing fresh food, which can affect the physical health of the community residents and the economic health of the neighborhood. This report discusses research that has been conducted which highlights the difficulties that communities face in attracting a grocery store and having the store be successful, and serves as a resource to help communities organize a strategy to attract grocery stores. It also discusses the resources of local governments and local community-based organizations which have.. Read More

Hillsborough County, FL Extensive HIA Process
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Healthy Communities, Health Impact Assessments    
State: Not Applicable
There is an extensive required Health Impact Assessment (HIA) process in Hillsborough County, Florida for any public projects that are proposed to the planning board. Hillsborough County has a six step HIA program, similar to an Environmental Impact Statement, which consists of a screening phase, scoping phase, assessment phase, recommendations phase, reporting phase, and monitoring phase. For all public projects being developed in the county, an HIA must first be completed before construction begins in order to mitigate the public health effec.. Read More
Town of Davidson, NC HIA in Comprehensive Plan
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Healthy Communities, Health Impact Assessments    
State: Not Applicable
The Town of Davidson, North Carolina did a Health Impact Assessment to determine the progress they have made from their previous comprehensive plan and determine what must be included in the town’s new comprehensive plan to further the goals of the community. The goal was to collect data on the town’s current position and develop a myriad of suggestions to promote healthy programs, policies, and infrastructure. The HIA was funded by the Center for Disease Control and Prevention’s Healthy Community Design Initiative and was a key resource for Da.. Read More

Untapped Potential: Strategies for Revitalization and Reuse
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Affordable Housing    
State: Not Applicable
Los Angeles created a guideline for future adaptive reuse legislation. Its top strategies to promote reuse are: leverage data and mapping tools to understand reuse opportunities; eliminate, reduce, or recalibrate parking requirements; update zoning codes to meet the needs of the 21st century; retain and strengthen existing incentive programs for reuse; remove key barriers that prevent change of use in vacant or underutilized buildings; develop a solutions database to track and promote ways to overcome building code challenges; develop new sourc.. Read More

Salem Area Comprehensive Plan
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Comprehensive Planning    
State: Not Applicable
Identified as a model for Oregon by the Land Conservation and Development Commission, Salem’s comprehensive plan identifies specific areas called public investment areas (PIAs) where improvements are focused. Their purpose is to coordinate and concentrate investments for urban services, such as sewer, water, drainage, streets, parks, and schools, to provide full-serviced land for development, and to reduce the amount of dispersed development. Salem’s focused public investment plan (FPIP) ensures that planned projects are timed so that services.. Read More



County of Montgomery Land Use Classification Ordinance - Alternative Dispute Resolution Provision
Date Added: Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Alternative Dispute Resolution    
State: Not Applicable
The County and cities therein resolved to use a formalized dispute resolution process when there is a conflict involving property annexations or land use plans. .. Read More

Town of Woodstock Preliminary Discussion Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017
Pre-Application & Consensus Building    
State: Not Applicable
Prior to submitting a formal application for a zoning permit or special permit, applicants in the Town of Woodstock are 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. These discussions are informal and non-binding. In addition, to better facilitate the overall subdivision application and design process in Woodstock, it is strongly recommended that a pre-application meeting be held between the Applicant, the si.. Read More

Technical Guidance Manual for Sustainable Neighborhoods
Date Added: Tuesday, May 9, 2017
Comprehensive Planning, Development Standards, Local Environmental Law, Subdivision Regulations, Transit Oriented Development (TOD), Zoning, Street & Sidewalk Development, Parking    
State: Not Applicable
The sections of this manual are designed to parallel a typical municipality’s land development plans, regulations, and related policies. It begins by presenting strategies to integrate LEED-ND criteria into local planning policies as expressed in comprehensive plans and special area plans. It then presents strategies for incorporating LEED-ND criteria into traditional zoning code sections, site plan and subdivision regulations, and other land use development standards, including building and related codes. Finally, it introduces strategies for .. Read More



Updated Town and Village of Middleburgh Comprehensive Plan
Date Added: Monday, June 11, 2018
Comprehensive Planning, Economic Development, Flood Prevention, Historic Preservation, Land Use Planning, Open Space Preservation, Solar Energy, Farmland Protection & Preservation    
State: Not Applicable
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 .. Read More

Affordability Unlocked Development Bonus Program Applicant Guide
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Affordable Housing , Incentive Zoning, Healthy Communities    
State: Not Applicable
Austin’s “Affordability Unlocked” program provides waivers and bonuses in exchange for setting aside at least 50% of a new development’s units for a minimum of 40 years for rental and 99 years for ownership units. In rental units, 20% of all units must meet 50% AMI and affordable units must be affordable to households at 60% AMI or below to qualify. 25% of affordable units must either (a) have two or more bedrooms, (b) serve as supportive housing, or (c) serve as elderly housing. For sale units, affordable unit prices must be affordable to hous.. Read More

Land Use Law Center Economic Development Policy Statement
Date Added: Saturday, April 22, 2017
Economic Development    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

City of Manitou Springs Citizen Participation Plan & Report
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017
Pre-Application & Consensus Building    
State: Not Applicable
Applications as specified or required by Planning Staff shall include a Citizen Participation Plan and Report which must be implemented prior to the first public hearing... Read More

FOCUS Kansas City
Date Added: Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Comprehensive Planning    
State: Not Applicable
FOCUS Kansas City is a comprehensive twenty-five year plan. It is too large to be online, and can be purchased from the city. It has over 600 initiatives, and Kansas City has been working on and with the document since 1994. Phase II of the plan along with implementation strategies were adopted by the City Council in October of 1997. The plan has resulted in seven neighborhood FOCUS centers intended to house neighborhood projects and keep local projects close to home... Read More


Healthy Community Implementation Toolbox
Date Added: Thursday, July 12, 2018
Comprehensive Planning, Healthy Communities, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Los Angeles wants to decrease health inequalities, chronic disease and obesity amongst the community. As a result, the ULI Los Angeles’ Healthy Community Implementation Toolbox was created for local governments and officials in public works, planning, and private developers. The goal of this toolbox is to create a healthy environment with creative active living design plans, incorporating fast food regulations and healthy retail incentives, along with farmers’ markets and community gardens. The toolbox outlines twelve tools for developing healt.. Read More

Land Use Planning for Public Health: The Role of Local Boards of Health in Community Design and Development
Date Added: Wednesday, July 11, 2018
Comprehensive Planning, Land Use Planning, Local Boards, Healthy Communities, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
This article focuses on the health issues arising from the built environment and the roles of both the government and private sector must do to combat these issues. First the article discusses issues affecting the built environment, such as decreases in water and air quality, loss of farmland, increase in traffic and residential segregation. A key focus in the article is how transportation plays a major role in shaping the built environment and how urban design can create greater quality neighborhoods. The article also goes into detail about wa.. Read More

Town of Batavia Sewer Use Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Sewage Management    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Affordable Housing Preference Program
Date Added: Tuesday, June 7, 2022
Affordable Housing , Displacement    
State: Not Applicable
San Francisco, California’s Affordable Housing Preference Program establishes a preference for occupying units or receiving assistance from the city’s affordable housing programs. The program notes that a preference in qualifying for affordable housing for residents who have been, or are about to be, displaced is necessary. The city also assists in preserving access to schools, after school programs, stores, community centers, places of worship, and health care providers... Read More

City of Evansville Environmental Protection Agency
Date Added: Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Enforcement, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
The Evansville Environmental Protection Agency, through the ordinances in its portion of the city code, is tasked with control air and noise pollution. Although not an especially innovative set of environmental ordinances, it sets clear standards and enforcement mechanisms and is a good example of local command and control ordinances... Read More

Land Use Law Center Model Comprehensive Economic Development Policy
Date Added: Saturday, April 22, 2017
Comprehensive Planning, Economic Development    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

Coastal Zone Management Act
Date Added: Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Coastal Protection, Stormwater Management, Wildlife & Fish Habitat, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection    
State: Not Applicable
The Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972 (CZMA) and the Coastal Zone Act Reauthorization Amendments of 1990 offer state governments a voluntary partnership with the federal government to protect coastal resources. To receive federal funding, participating states must create approved coastal zone management programs. The Act calls for the coordination of state and local water quality plans and specifies that federal agency activity “within or outside the coastal zone that affects any land or water use or natural resource of the coastal zone” must.. Read More


City of Chicago Vacant Buildings Registration Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, April 15, 2017
Vacant & Distressed Properties    
State: Not Applicable
The city of Chicago, Illinois, enacted an ordinance requiring owners of vacant buildings to perform several tasks within 30 days of the building’s vacancy. These tasks include: enclosing and securing the building; posting a sign on the building providing the owner’s and his or her agent’s contact information; acquiring substantial liability insurance for the building and; registering the vacant building with the Department of Buildings. This registration last for six months and costs $250. If the building remains vacant at the end of the si.. Read More

County of Washington Purchase of Development Rights Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 12, 2017
Purchase of Development Rights    
State: Not Applicable
Areas of the county which are important for their high quality natural areas, agricultural or scenic value have been identified and mapped. Lands within these areas are then eligible for the purchase of development rights (conservation easement) using county revenue or in conjunction with other sources of money. The permanent easement is then held and enforced by a qualified agency or group... Read More

City of Berkeley Planning and Development Procedures - Alternative Dispute Resolution Provision
Date Added: Wednesday, February 3, 2016
Alternative Dispute Resolution    
State: Not Applicable
During the Zoning Board application process, the Board may direct the parties to mediate a dispute over the proposed land use. The Board or Zoning Officer will direct the mediator as to which issues are to be addressed, and the mediator will submit a report to the Board or Zoning Officer within 45 days of the mediation. This mediation is voluntary and non-binding. .. Read More

Clean Air for Future Generations
Date Added: Wednesday, June 20, 2018
Transportation & Land Use Planning, Healthy Communities, Vulnerable Populations    
State: Not Applicable
Chapter 13 of Ramsey, Minnesota’s Comprehensive Plan sets a clear strategy of preserving existing tree canopy and promoting planting more trees in new developments to increase the air quality of the community for future generations. They further set a policy of finding opportunities to plant additional trees along Highway 10 and other major roadways... Read More

City of San Diego Land Development Manual: Storm Water Standards
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Floodplain Regulations, Stormwater Management    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance is designed as a manual for selection, design, and incorporation of storm water Best Management Practices (BMPs) into the project’s design plan. It requires identification of pollutants of concern from land use activities and pollutants and conditions of concern in receiving waters. The manual additionally requires pollution prevention throughout. One example is pollution prevention through pest control in the design of a site to avoid pesticide application... Read More

Seattle, WA Removes Barriers to ADU Development
Date Added: Tuesday, August 31, 2021
Accessory Uses , Healthy Communities    
State: Not Applicable
Recently enacted zoning legislation that removes significant barriers to ADU development in order to address the city’s housing crisis. The new code removes off-street parking and owner occupancy requirements while also streamlining the approval process for ADU development. Seattle also created a user-friendly website to simplify the process for its residents, connecting homeowners considering ADUs to members of the design and construction community, even addressing the high cost of ADU development through access to low-interest financing.. Read More

Town of Southampton, NY Pre-Application Process
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Pre-Application & Consensus Building, Healthy Communities, Health Impact Assessments    
State: Not Applicable
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 .. Read More

Transit-Oriented Development Opportunities in Somerset County, New Jersey
Date Added: Monday, July 20, 2015
Transit Oriented Development (TOD)    
State: Not Applicable
The Somerset County Planning Board conducted the study on Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Opportunities as a part of the County’s Smart Growth planning initiatives to enhance and encourage transit use and pedestrian and bicycle activity. This study was created to assist local municipalities in effectively implementing TOD. Through a planning process that involved public and stakeholder participation, transit system analysis, physical site analysis, and an understanding of market conditions, five potential sites for TOD were chosen. Three sit.. Read More

County of Lane Planned Unit Development Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 6, 2017
Planned Unit Development    
State: Not Applicable
The County of Lane, Oregon has an ordinance that provides for Planned Unit Developments (PUD). Lane County has a population of about 350,000, and includes the cities of Springfield and Eugene. It is bordered on the west by the Pacific Ocean and on the east by the Cascade Mountain range. The county is almost 90% forested, and its constituents have a high interest in protecting the natural beauty of the surrounding environment by promoting sustainable development. The PUD ordinance seeks to accomplish this goal by providing a tool that promot.. Read More

Village of Bellwood Neighborhood Preservation Program
Date Added: Saturday, April 15, 2017
Vacant & Distressed Properties    
State: Not Applicable
The Village of Bellwood passed an ordinance creating a Neighborhood Preservation Program in an effort to prevent the deterioration and abandonment of housing in traditional neighborhoods; preserve, coordinate, and concentrate maintenance efforts in designated areas; promote private investment in housing in those neighborhoods; and promote community involvement in all such activities. The Program sets forth six (6) criteria under which an area is eligible for designation as a Neighborhood Preservation Area, including but not limited to: where t.. Read More

City of Tuscon Transit-Oriented Development Handbook Final Draft
Date Added: Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Transit Oriented Development (TOD)    
State: Not Applicable
This handbook outlines the City of Tucson’s Transit Oriented Development (TOD) plan for the Tucson Streetcar Corridor. Its purpose is to guide planning and development around modern streetcar stops. Factors such as customer experience, land use, context sensitive design, pedestrian amenities, parking, and stop circulation and access are all addressed in relation to TOD along a streetcar corridor. A review of plans in peer communities is also provided to demonstrate successful implementation of TOD strategies... Read More

City of Raleigh Equitable Transit-Oriented Development Guidebook
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Transit Oriented Development (TOD), Transit Oriented Development (TOD), Transportation & Land Use Planning, Transportation & Land Use Planning, Healthy Communities, Healthy Communities, Equity, Equity    
State: Not Applicable
This guidebook is split into five sections: 1) introduction 2) design principles 3) station area 4) policy toolkit 5) action plan. The introduction discusses why it is important to plan development around transit and what the goals for growth and affordability. Sections two through five are aimed at how to achieve these goals. Specifically, the documents suggests using zoning to advance equitable transit-oriented development through a TOD overlay zone. Complete streets, density changes, and use changes are also advanced... Read More
City of Raleigh Equitable Transit-Oriented Development Guidebook
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Transit Oriented Development (TOD), Transit Oriented Development (TOD), Transportation & Land Use Planning, Transportation & Land Use Planning, Healthy Communities, Healthy Communities, Equity, Equity    
State: Not Applicable
This guidebook is split into five sections: 1) introduction 2) design principles 3) station area 4) policy toolkit 5) action plan. The introduction discusses why it is important to plan development around transit and what the goals for growth and affordability. Sections two through five are aimed at how to achieve these goals. Specifically, the documents suggests using zoning to advance equitable transit-oriented development through a TOD overlay zone. Complete streets, density changes, and use changes are also advanced... Read More

Town of Saugerties Waterfront Overlay District
Date Added: Tuesday, May 23, 2017
Coastal Protection, Land Use Planning, Overlay District, Planned Development Districts, Site Design Standards    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Solar Ann Arbor
Date Added: Monday, June 11, 2018
Solar Energy    
State: Not Applicable
Ann Arbor, Michigan adopted Solar Ann Arbor, a functional plan that includes an energy profile for the City and recommends creating municipal solar financial incentives streamlining the solar permitting process, integrating solar energy systems into municipal infrastructure and culture, adopting solar access laws and robust building energy codes, creating a solar outreach campaign, and supporting solar workforce development and green jobs... Read More

Healthy Planning: An evaluation of comprehensive plans addressing public health (APA)
Date Added: Wednesday, July 11, 2018
Comprehensive Planning, Healthy Communities    
State: Not Applicable
The purpose of this project is to create a framework which communities can follow that outline strategies of how to implement public health goals into comprehensive plans. More specifically, the project includes four sustainability plans that have been implemented across the United States. In “Examples” of Robust Public Health Policy, it discusses community examples which include active living, emergency preparedness, environmental exposures, food and nutrition, health and human services policies and social cohesion and mental health. The proje.. Read More

Early Community Outreach for Design Review
Date Added: Tuesday, July 17, 2018
Pre-Application & Consensus Building, Equity    
State: Not Applicable
In October 2017, the City of Seattle enacted a new set of regulations related to Design Review, an official city process that has allowed community members as well as professional planners and designers to weigh in on new development projects in Seattle since 1994. Among the updates, is a measure that allows the Seattle Department of Construction and Inspections (SDCI) to make rules for community outreach and early design guidance for projects going through Design Review. Pursuant to this measure, SDCI created a new rule for Early Communi.. Read More

City of Portland Erosion and Sediment Control Regulations
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Erosion & Sedimentation Control    
State: Not Applicable
These regulations are focused on ground disturbing activities regardless of whether or not a permit is required and unless otherwise exempted. Minimum requirements include: a threshold of no visible and measurable sediment or pollutant exiting the site or washing into a water body or storm system; installation of BMPs selected from the Erosion Control Manual, special requirements during the wet season (Oct 1-Apr 30); signage requirements on sites where a permit is required; and inspection of BMPs within 24 hours of a storm events. For sites req.. Read More

Town of North Castle Moratorium Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017
Moratoria, Open Space Preservation    
State: Not Applicable
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 .. Read More

Metrics For Planning Healthy Communities
Date Added: Wednesday, July 11, 2018
Comprehensive Planning, Healthy Communities    
State: Not Applicable
This project focuses on improving community healthy through the environments people “live, work and play.” The built environment is important because it can be used to reduce health inequities, strengthen the integration of health and planning and reduce socioeconomic issues. The project discusses the five categories that impact overall health and determines how planners can promote healthy lifestyles to counteract these factors through the built environment. Planners must be a focus on both traditional and social factors which impact human hea.. Read More

Grow Solar Local Government Solar Toolkit for Minnesota: Planning, Zoning, and Permitting
Date Added: Wednesday, June 20, 2018
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
The model addresses concerns that are primarily in counties, townships, and rural areas rather than cities and urban areas. The incentive portion of the urban model ordinance can be applied in rural areas, as are provisions addressing solar access and aesthetic considerations in those rural areas with development patterns at an urban scale (typically lots smaller than 1 acre). This ordinance addresses solar energy as both a principal use and as an accessory use to the primary residential or commercial use. The model outlines height restriction.. Read More

City of Twin Falls Zoning and Subdivision Regulations – Alternative Dispute Resolution Provision
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Alternative Dispute Resolution    
State: Not Applicable
Mediation is provided in the administration process of zoning issues, creating the opportunity for a stay in the hearing proceedings for parties who wish to engage in mediation. The first session is paid for by the city, thereafter, by the parties. .. Read More

County of San Juan Open Space & Conservation Plan
Date Added: Monday, April 17, 2017
Open Space Preservation, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
The San Juan County Open Space and Conservation plan is the result of an open space planning process, funded by San Juan County and The San Juan Preservation Trust. A primary goal of the plan is to identify and protect natural resources, with a focus on wildlife habitat. The plan proposes ways to implement five strategies of land conservation defined as information, education, incentives, regulation, and acquisition. .. Read More


Town of Irondequoit Open Space District Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017
Open Space Preservation, Recreational Uses, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

Town of Irondequoit Open Space District Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017
Open Space Preservation    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

FEMA Model Ordinance for Flood Loss Reduction & Fish Habitat
Date Added: Thursday, May 4, 2017
Flood Prevention, Floodplain Regulations, Floodwater Management, Wildlife & Fish Habitat, Disaster Mitigation    
State: Not Applicable
This model ordinance provides a framework for flood loss reduction regulations for use by any state in conjunction with affected counties or municipalities. Section one explicitly delegates State authority to local governmental bodies to adopt regulations to protect the public health, safety, and welfare of residents. Flood losses occur because of the cumulative effect of obstructions in special flood hazard areas. The purpose of the model ordinance is to promote the public health, safety, and welfare by reducing losses due to flooding by ma.. Read More

Zoning Prohibiting Fast-Food Establishments
Date Added: Monday, June 4, 2018
Healthy Communities, Low Nutrition Uses    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

City of Hollywood Affordable Housing Advisory Committee Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, January 26, 2017
Affordable Housing , Local Boards, Local Governance    
State: Not Applicable
This Affordable Housing Advisory Committee Ordinance authorizes the creation of the Hollywood Affordable Housing Advisory Committee for the purpose of recommending initiatives to encourage and facilitate affordable housing options. This section establishes guidelines for the composition of the committee and minimum recommendations such as: density levels, reduction of parking and setback requirements, expedited processing permits, modification of impact fees, reservation of infrastructure capacity, allowance of zero-lot-line configurations, and.. Read More

Town of Irondequoit River Harbor District Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017
Economic Development, Zoning, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

County of Kent Comprehensive Plan Update
Date Added: Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Comprehensive Planning, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
Chapter 7 of Kent County’s Comprehensive Plan discusses various areas of importance and recommends general guidelines for protection of these areas. Included is discussions of the importance of the preservation of wetlands, beaches and shorelines, coastal areas, and stormwater managements, as well as information regarding more specific areas such as the Silver Lake Watershed. .. Read More

Transit Oriented Development Plan Linden Station Area Draft
Date Added: Friday, July 17, 2015
Transit Oriented Development (TOD)    
State: Not Applicable
The Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Plan for Linden Station Area contains the City’s vision for TOD, the strategies for how to achieve it, provides a framework to enhance the compact walkable community that is centered around the Station, and designates four districts to accomplish this, the Core District, the Wood Avenue District, the Elizabeth Avenue District and an Office Residential Character/Live-work District. This plan builds upon the South Wood Avenue Redevelopment Plan, Theater Redevelopment and development approvals to locate mid-r.. Read More

Town of Bedford Aquifer Protection Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, March 19, 2017
Aquifer Protection, Overlay District    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

East New York Neighborhood Plan
Date Added: Monday, June 11, 2018
Affordable Housing , Economic Development, Solar Energy    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

Healthy Plan Making (APA)
Date Added: Tuesday, July 10, 2018
Comprehensive Planning, Healthy Communities    
State: Not Applicable
This document lays out a chart discussing important methods of integrating public health practices into comprehensive plans. Based on a study in 2010 by the American Planning Association, the organization generated a list of strategies used in the planning process to integrate public health. The major components of the list include community engagement, active living, emergency preparedness, environmental health, food and nutrition, public services and social cohesion and mental health. The document also provides examples of places where these .. Read More

City of Henderson Use Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
In Henderson, Nevada solar collection systems are permitted as an accessory use in all use districts. Within its Use Regulations chapter, Henderson lists specific setback, location, and height regulations for these solar collection systems. For example, “in all zoning districts, free-standing solar collection systems shall be located a minimum of six feet from all property lines and other structures.” Henderson further lists requirements for solar collection systems’ appearances such as integrating the system into the design and architectural c.. Read More

Programs for Brownfield Remediation
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018
Healthy Communities, Brownfields    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

New York State Tax Exemption for Wind Energy Systems
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Wind Energy    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Soil Contamination Strategies
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018
Healthy Communities, Brownfields    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Recommended Model Development Principles for Protection Natural Resources - Hudson River Estuary
Date Added: Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Development Standards    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

How to Conduct a Build-Out Analysis
Date Added: Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Build-Out Analysis    
State: Not Applicable
The instructions formed by the Southern NH Planning Commission detail a step-by-step process a municipality should use in conducting a Build-Out Analysis. This document contains helpful information on what a Build-Out Analysis is, what questions it can answer, and the type of community best served by conducting an Analysis. The instructions detail two stages in the process, Mapping and Interpretation which entails compiling data and creating maps to create estimates, and Quantitative Analysis which is where the information collected is quantifi.. Read More

Town of Guilford Plan for Open Space and Municipal Land Needs
Date Added: Monday, October 17, 2016
Land Acquisition, Open Space Preservation    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance provides a comprehensive approach to land acquisition. The community looks at the needs of the town in terms of open space protection, passive recreation, active recreation, and municipal facilities to help plan for the future... Read More

Town of Huntington Climate Action Plan
Date Added: Monday, June 11, 2018
Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency, Land Use Planning, Solar Energy, Stormwater Management, Transportation & Land Use Planning, Climate Change Planning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

City of Boynton Beach Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Boynton Beach, Florida has incorporated Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Arrays regulations within its Zoning Code in a separate subsection. In that subsection, Boynton Beach lists height, location, and rooftop requirements. The PV Arrays sub-section also describes regulations for wall mounted or flush to a building or structure solar energy systems. These regulations include a required yard setback by more than three feet, a minimum dimension of nine feet, and a wall mounted PV array design that is compatible with the structure and surface to which it .. Read More

Town of Amenia Special Permits & Site Plan Review
Date Added: Sunday, March 19, 2017
Alternative Dispute Resolution, Pre-Application & Consensus Building, Site Plan Approval    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

Village of Briarcliff Manor Tree Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, April 17, 2017
Environmental Compliance, Landscaping, Tree Preservation & Protection, Timber Harvesting    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

State of Florida State & Regional Planning – Findings & Intent Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, May 4, 2017
Comprehensive Planning, Smart Growth, Transportation & Land Use Planning    
State: Not Applicable
This Florida statute details the state’s legislative intent in promulgating planning and development statutes. Guidance is given to the constituent regions and municipalities to use in developing their own plans... Read More

Miami-Dade County Ordinance Sustainable Buildings Program
Date Added: Monday, June 27, 2016
Development Standards, Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency    
State: Not Applicable
Ordinance 07-65 was approved on May 8, 2007. This ordinance amended the Code of Miami-Dade County to establish a Sustainable Buildings Program for Miami-Dade County facilities. In this legislation, the County established a program to promote the green design, construction and operation of buildings that are developed, constructed and managed by the County. .. Read More

State of New York Environmental Quality Review Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, May 3, 2017
Environmental Impact Review Requirements, Local Boards, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

The Jefferson County Farmland Protection Program
Date Added: Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Farmland Protection & Preservation    
State: Not Applicable
This county farmland protection plan offers provisions for land acquisition and the purchase of conservation easements based on a system of prioritization to determine the allocation of funds... Read More

Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission Renewable Energy Ordinance Frameworks; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Saturday, January 6, 2018
   
State: Not Applicable
The Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission’s (DVRPC) Renewable Energy Ordinance Frameworks serve as a resource for municipalities as they develop and update ordinances to govern the siting of small-scale renewable energy systems in their community. The frameworks provide clear, consistent guidance on how to construct renewable energy ordinances and promote safe and sound community development. These frameworks provide a menu of sample ordinance language options, both permissive and restrictive, to allow municipalities to build a customize.. Read More

State of New Hampshire State Land Use Enabling Act
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017
Comprehensive Planning, Land Use Planning, Local Governance, State Land Use Law    
State: Not Applicable
New Hampshire does not require local governments to adopt zoning, but if a local government chooses to zone it is required first to adopt a master plan. The master plan must include a vision section and a land use element. It may also include transportation, community facilities, economic development, natural resources, natural hazards, and recreation elements. The state’s grant of power to local governments extends the purposes of the Standard State Zoning Enabling Act to expressly include the use of innovative planning techniques and the use.. Read More


Bloomington Indiana Green Building Program
Date Added: Monday, June 27, 2016
Development Standards, Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency    
State: Not Applicable
In the Municipal Code contains a Green Building Program, Chapter 2.29. The purpose of this program is to further the city’s commitment to environmental, economic and social stewardship, yield cost savings to city taxpayers through reduced operating costs, provide healthy work environments for staff and visitors, reduce local greenhouse gas emissions, and prepare for a current period of reduced supply of oil and natural gas. The program adopts LEED certification. .. Read More

State of New York Local Leaders Guide to Comprehensive Planning
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016
Comprehensive Planning    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More


Township of London Grove Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Thursday, September 7, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
London Grove’s extensive Zoning Code incorporates a separate and informative section on solar energy systems, § 27-1839. According to § 27-1839, solar energy systems are permitted in all zoning districts as an accessory use, except that in two districts, “a special exception is required for the installation of any ground mounted solar energy system on any property less than 8,000 square feet.” The section goes on to list a number of development and design standards that are to be applied to the construction and installation of any solar energy .. Read More

Land Use Law Center Diagnostic Checklist of Redevelopment Readiness Techniques
Date Added: Saturday, April 22, 2017
Economic Development, Land Use Planning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

City of Bainbridge Island Comprehensive Plan – Environmental Element
Date Added: Thursday, March 23, 2017
Coastal Protection, Comprehensive Planning, Sea Level Rise Adaptation    
State: Not Applicable
The City of Bainbridge Island has explicitly addressed the potential for sea level rise in the Environmental Element of its comprehensive plan. Adopted in 2004, the plan recognizes that Bainbridge Island is potentially subject to flooding, erosion, landslides, seismic events, and soil subsistence. The overall goal of the Environmental element is to avoid adverse impacts where possible; to minimize, reduce or eliminate impacts over time; and to compensate for unavoidable impacts. The plan outlines protections for critical areas including tran.. Read More

Template Solar Energy Development Ordinance for North Carolina
Date Added: Wednesday, June 29, 2016
Solar Energy    
State: Not Applicable
The Template Solar Energy Development Ordinance for North Carolina defines solar energy systems, in part, based on their physical size measured in acres. According to the state’s model ordinance, Level 1 Solar Energy Systems include those that are “ground-mounted on an area of up to 50 [percent] of the footprint of the primary structure on the parcel but no more than [one] acre,” and Level 2 Solar Energy Systems are ground-mounted systems with a footprint of less than or equal to a half acre in residential districts, less than or equal to 10 ac.. Read More

City of Tumwater Local Natural Resource Protection Ordinance (Comprehensive)
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Aquifer Protection, Right-to-Farm, Wildlife & Fish Habitat, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection    
State: Not Applicable
This comprehensive environmental ordinance, portions of which have been added over the past twenty years, addresses a breadth of environmental concerns. These include protection standards for; trees and vegetation, aquifers, wetlands, fish and wildlife, as well as provisions for the right-to-farm, right-to-mine, and commute trip reduction. This ordinance is particularly unique in that it does not appear to be in response to a state level statute, as are many other local ordinances in Washington State. .. Read More

State Street Corridor Transit Oriented Development Policy Guidelines
Date Added: Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Transit Oriented Development (TOD)    
State: Not Applicable
This document is a comprehensive walk-through of a state plan for implementing Transit Oriented Development (TOD). It contains policy guidelines for the first step in a twenty-year project to implement TOD in Idaho’s State Street Corridor and advises communities on site-specific as well as more general guidance in order to create a region-wide concerted and cooperative effort. Model language and detailed information on TOD policy guidelines provide communities with a model to follow in implementing TOD... Read More

Guilderland Town Code - Alternative Dispute Resolution Provision
Date Added: Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Alternative Dispute Resolution    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

Town of Shelter Island Nature Preserve System
Date Added: Monday, April 17, 2017
Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

Washington State Environmental Policy Act
Date Added: Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Environmental Impact Review Requirements    
State: Not Applicable
The State Environmental Policy Act (SEPA) seeks to consider the environmental impacts of government decisions and requires a review of various activities or projects in order to assess the proposal’s impact on the environment. Land, air, water, plants/animals, as well as impacts of noise, traffic, utilities, aesthetics, recreation and housing must be considered under this act. Counties throughout the state are working to coordinate their efforts at meeting the requirements of the Growth Management Act and SEPA. .. Read More

City of Fargo Neighborhood Revitalization Initiative
Date Added: Sunday, August 28, 2016
Incentive Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
The Neighborhood Revitalization Program (NRI) is an effort in Fargo to encourage growth in the city center. The program offers economic incentives for residents to move into older single-family homes in the downtown area instead of developing on the City’s fringe. The incentives to develop an older home include low interest loans, child care assistance and gap financing (Stein 2003)... Read More

Town of Epping Energy Efficiency & Sustainable Design Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, August 27, 2016
Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency    
State: Not Applicable
The Town of Epping, New Hampshire, population 5,476, established a more stringent energy code than the state, which adopted the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC) 2006 Edition with amendments. The town's energy efficiency and sustainable design code is based on a system that awards points for various sustainable elements and energy production practices. Epping’s point system is similar to the U.S. Green Building Council’s Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design rating system in establishing criteria to meet heightened energy .. Read More

Garden City Village, NY Affordable Housing
Date Added: Tuesday, August 31, 2021
Affordable Housing , Healthy Communities, Density    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Recreation Marketing
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018
Healthy Communities, Complete Streets, Bicycle Infrastructure    
State: Not Applicable
The city of Baltimore has implemented a Bicycle Master Plan. The plan sets out the vision of making significant improvements in providing access to safe and user-friendly bicycling facilities over the course of 15 years. From 2005-2015, with dedicated funding, more than 100 miles of bicycle facilities have been installed in the city already. There is a full-time Bike Planner on staff at Baltimore’s Department of Transportation; but improvements are still necessary. The Bicycle Master Plan proposes to increase bicycle infrastructure and bette.. Read More
Transforming Vacant Properties
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018
Open Space Preservation, Healthy Communities    
State: Not Applicable
Baltimore has a vacant property reclamation project termed “Project 5000.” The purpose of the project is to purchase vacant properties in “competitive, emerging, and stable” neighborhoods, but the most recent Master Plan calls for an extension of this project to “transitional and distressed” areas. Further, the plan calls for offering interest groups the chance to convert or purchase the vacant lots for conversion into community gardens, among other uses. In combination with Project 5000, the Master Plan calls for support of a Community Gard.. Read More

County of New Castle Environment First Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Erosion & Sedimentation Control    
State: Not Applicable
The Environment First amendments to the Unified Development Code (UDC), were introduced May 13, 2003. They tighten up the already strict and thorough regulations of the UDC, which includes Article 23: Landscaping, Trees, and Erosion. The Environment First amendments strengthen the riparian buffer requirements in order to dissipate the velocity of runoff and control erosion, requires stormwater management and grading efforts to use green technology best management practices and to maintain non-erosive velocities of runoff and allows herbaceous v.. Read More

Town of Brookhaven Farmland Bill of Rights
Date Added: Wednesday, February 10, 2016
Farmland Protection & Preservation    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Town of Brookhaven Right to Farm Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, February 10, 2016
Right-to-Farm, Farmland Protection & Preservation    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

North Carolina’s Template Solar Energy Development Ordinance; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
The Template Solar Energy Development Ordinance for North Carolina defines solar energy systems (“SES”), in part, based on their physical size measured in acres. According to the state’s model ordinance, Level 1 SESs include those that are ground-mounted on an area of up to 50 percent of the footprint of the primary structure on the parcel but no more than 1 acre. Level 2 SESs are ground-mounted systems with a footprint of less than or equal to a half acre in residential districts, less than or equal to 10 acres in general commercial business a.. Read More

Village of Briarcliff Elder Community District Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 6, 2017
Affordable Housing , Senior Housing, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

City of Santa Fe Terrain and Stormwater Management Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Stormwater Management    
State: Not Applicable
The Santa Fe Terrain and Stormwater Management Ordinance is designed to help capture stormwater and increase its infiltration in order to reduce substantial erosion hazards due to uncontrolled runoff, and to conserve and capture water resources. There are exemptions for development meeting such standards as less than 1000 SF of land disturbance and on slopes less than 10%. The ordinance provides for minimum grading standards, soil engineering reports if over 1,000 cubic yards of earth is moved, and the use of BMPs during construction. There are.. Read More

Plan4Health Food Systems (APA)
Date Added: Monday, June 25, 2018
Healthy Communities, Urban Farming & Community Gardens    
State: Not Applicable
The Plan4Health American Planning Association Project released a report on Food systems. The Plan4Health coalition identifies the factors that impact a community’s access to healthy food, compiles Best Practices, and provides additional resources regarding these factors that impact food systems. The report provides information about and suggestions for community gardens, home gardens, healthy corner stores, mobile markets, food hubs, and food banks. The report also provides a list of communities with Plan4Health Cohorts. .. Read More
Plan4Health Food Systems (APA)
Date Added: Monday, June 25, 2018
Healthy Communities, Urban Farming & Community Gardens    
State: Not Applicable
The Plan4Health American Planning Association Project released a report on Food systems. The Plan4Health coalition identifies the factors that impact a community’s access to healthy food, compiles Best Practices, and provides additional resources regarding these factors that impact food systems. The report provides information about and suggestions for community gardens, home gardens, healthy corner stores, mobile markets, food hubs, and food banks. The report also provides a list of communities with Plan4Health Cohorts. .. Read More



City of Charlotte Transit Oriented Development Districts
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017
Overlay District, Transit Oriented Development (TOD)    
State: Not Applicable
Charlotte’s Transit Oriented Development (TOD) zoning district and the related overlay districts were created to encourage a compact and high intensity mix of residential, office, retail, institutional, and civic uses in areas with high potential for enhanced transit and pedestrian activity. To achieve the high-density mixed districts, minimum densities and floor area ratios (FAR) increase in areas closest to transit stations. In addition, development standards, such as minimum building setbacks, are implemented to encourage pedestrian friendly.. Read More

Town of Gorham Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Within its Zoning Ordinance, the Town of Gorham in New Hampshire defines solar energy systems as “any equipment or system utilizing solar energy to provide electricity and/or space heating or cooling, hot water heating and swimming pool heating.” Within the Town of Gorham, roof- or wall- mounted solar collectors are a permitted use in all zoning districts. Non-roof- or wall-mounted solar energy systems, however, are only allowed by special exception. “All installations are required to meet Section M2301 of the International Building Code.” .. Read More

County of King Surface Water Management Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Enforcement, Erosion & Sedimentation Control    
State: Not Applicable
The Surface Water Management Title is a comprehensive set of regulations focused on surface water management. A drainage review is required for certain projects such as all development with >5000 SF of impervious surface, development near sensitive or critical areas, or is development of an existing site over certain size and financial thresholds. Drainage review consists of several core requirements including discharge requirements, off-site analysis, and flow control. There is also a Water Quality section that implements a fee structure based.. Read More

City of Boise Foothills Planned Development Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, August 28, 2016
Incentive Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
The Foothills Planned Unit Development (PUD) ordinance is a subsection of the PUD ordinance, the purpose of which is to implement the residential subdivision density aspects of the city’s Foothills Policy Plan. It defines the type of subdivision and zoning allowed in the Foothills Planning Area by enabling a “density bonus” technique that allows the trade of density for open space, as long as the trading land is less than 25% slope and greater than 1 acre. The density trade element also provides for sensitive areas such as wildlife corridors,.. Read More

City of Minneapolis Demolition of Vacant Properties Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, April 15, 2017
Vacant & Distressed Properties    
State: Not Applicable
Minnesota state statues allow cities to enact ordinances to handle the problems associated with hazardous and vacant buildings. In turn, the Minneapolis legislature enacted a statute authorizing the city to rehabilitate or demolish buildings to enhance livability, preserve the tax base, and abate public nuisances created by these buildings. The ordinance allows the director of inspections to secure vacant and hazardous buildings and serve notice on the property owner. If the owner fails to reply within six days, the director may authoriz.. Read More

Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission Renewable Energy Ordinance Framework Solar PV
Date Added: Monday, July 11, 2016
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
The Delaware Valley Regional Planning Commission’s Alternative Energy Ordinance Working Group developed the DVRPC Renewable Energy Ordinance Frameworks to help municipalities adopt regulations for small-scale renewable energy systems. The ordinance frameworks “provide a menu of sample ordinance language options, both permissive and restrictive, to allow municipalities to build a customized ordinance that addresses their local issues.” The frameworks offer a range of development standards for municipalities to choose from, including requirements.. Read More

Mecklenburg County Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control
Date Added: Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Erosion & Sedimentation Control    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance applies to all land-disturbing activities, except forest activity that follows the state forest practice guidelines and agriculture, but requires a sediment and erosion control plan only on activities that disturb more than one acre. The ordinance controls the length, location, and area of soil exposure and requires weekly monitoring and post-storm event monitoring. In addition this ordinance is designed to facilitate the county’s efforts to assess penalties on those in non-compliance, by including a thorough list of violations a.. Read More

State of Virginia’s Model Ordinances for Solar Energy Projects (Large, Small, Tax Exemptions); Solar Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018
   
State: Not Applicable
The Local Government Outreach Group (LOG), convened by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, developed two model zoning ordinances: the first for smaller-scale solar energy projects and the second for larger-scale projects. These ordinances define both smaller- and larger-scale projects as (1) those that generate electricity from sunlight using one or more photovoltaic systems and other appurtenant structures and facilities onsite, OR (2) those that utilize sunlight as an energy source to heat or cool buildings or water or produce e.. Read More
State of Virginia’s Model Ordinances for Solar Energy Projects (Large, Small, Tax Exemptions); Solar Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018
   
State: Not Applicable
The Local Government Outreach Group (LOG), convened by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, developed two model zoning ordinances: the first for smaller-scale solar energy projects and the second for larger-scale projects. These ordinances define both smaller- and larger-scale projects as (1) those that generate electricity from sunlight using one or more photovoltaic systems and other appurtenant structures and facilities onsite, OR (2) those that utilize sunlight as an energy source to heat or cool buildings or water or produce e.. Read More
State of Virginia’s Model Ordinances for Solar Energy Projects (Large, Small, Tax Exemptions); Solar Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018
   
State: Not Applicable
The Local Government Outreach Group (LOG), convened by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, developed two model zoning ordinances: the first for smaller-scale solar energy projects and the second for larger-scale projects. These ordinances define both smaller- and larger-scale projects as (1) those that generate electricity from sunlight using one or more photovoltaic systems and other appurtenant structures and facilities onsite, OR (2) those that utilize sunlight as an energy source to heat or cool buildings or water or produce e.. Read More
State of Virginia’s Model Ordinances for Solar Energy Projects (Large, Small, Tax Exemptions); Solar Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018
   
State: Not Applicable
The Local Government Outreach Group (LOG), convened by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality, developed two model zoning ordinances: the first for smaller-scale solar energy projects and the second for larger-scale projects. These ordinances define both smaller- and larger-scale projects as (1) those that generate electricity from sunlight using one or more photovoltaic systems and other appurtenant structures and facilities onsite, OR (2) those that utilize sunlight as an energy source to heat or cool buildings or water or produce e.. Read More

County of Brown Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
In its Zoning Ordinance, Brown County in Minnesota lists solar energy systems and solar structures as permitted uses in the Agricultural/Shoreland Protection District, Highway Business District, General Business District, and Limited Industry. Section 702 of its Zoning Ordinance, however, permits solar energy systems and solar structures as accessory uses in all districts, including residential ones, “provided the system is in compliance with minimum lot requirement and setbacks.” The section also goes on to include solar energy systems as elig.. Read More

Town of Ellington Earth Excavation Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, May 4, 2017
Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Landscaping    
State: Not Applicable
This law requires that excavation and removal or importation of more than 1,000 cubic yards of earth within any zoning district over one year, from any single parcel of land, requires a special permit. A detailed erosion control plan and a final landscaping plan must be submitted before the permit can be issued. A sufficient amount of topsoil must be set aside and not removed from the premises. Excavators must keep sound levels within prescribed limits, restrict hours of operation, buffer the work site, and control truck access to minimize dang.. Read More

Town of Ellington Earth Excavation Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Site Design Standards    
State: Not Applicable
The Town of Ellington, Connecticut’s Earth Excavation Code sets out the criteria for excavation activities including erosion control, wind erosion control, dust control, working slopes, minimum setbacks, topsoil preservations, buffering, and landscaping. The Earth Excavation Code also limits sound pressure levels, truck access, and hours of operation when working at an excavation site adjacent to a residentially zoned district... Read More

City of Lincoln Urban Design Committee
Date Added: Thursday, January 26, 2017
Local Boards, Local Governance    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance formally establishes an Urban Design Committee within the city of Lincoln, appointed to "improve the quality of life through urban design." This goal is based on considerations of "the impact of physical development upon the environment," among other quality of life goals, and charges the group with advising the city on "matters relating to urban design, visual relationships, architectural design, and aesthetics," allowing for a forum to address the environmental impacts of proposed urban development... Read More

City of Olean, New York Code of Ordinances Article 10.25 – Solar Energy Production Facilities
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More


City of Annapolis Green Buildings: Energy Efficiency and Environmental Design
Date Added: Wednesday, January 27, 2016
Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency    
State: Not Applicable
The City of Annapolis, the capital of Maryland, is set in the heart of the Chesapeake Bay. Only 29 miles east of Washington D.C., Annapolis has a population of 36,524 people, with a population density of 5,326 people per square mile. Annapolis has several public transportation options, including an eight-route bus system and railway connecting the city to nearby Washington D.C. and Baltimore. Annapolis uses an integrated approach in regulating the planning, design, and sustainability of buildings. The city’s sustainable building law manda.. Read More

Proposed Hatfield Zoning Amendment - Water Supply Protection District
Date Added: Wednesday, July 22, 2015
Aquifer Protection, Water Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
This zoning amendment delineates the boundaries of the Water Supply Protection District and specifies what uses are prohibited or restricted inside of the district, such as the prohibition of a certain percentage of impervious surface. The requirements for obtaining special permits, which may only be granted provided that no adverse effect on water quality or quantity occurs, are also described... Read More

County of Lake Green Building & Development Code
Date Added: Saturday, August 27, 2016
Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency    
State: Not Applicable
Lake County, Florida is located in central Florida and is named after the numerous lakes in the area. There are approximately 1,400 named and identified lakes in the County. Lake County has a population of 307,243 people and has a total area of 1,156 square miles. A total of 203 square miles (17%) of the County’s area is water. The County has experienced several devastating storms, tornados and hurricanes in the past four years. The County has an innovative green building incentive created to establish major environmental goals. The State o.. Read More

Town of Yorktown Clustering and Flexibility Standards Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Clustering & Cluster Development    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

City of Fairfield Wellhead Protection Program
Date Added: Tuesday, July 21, 2015
Aquifer Protection    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance regulates hazardous substances and prohibits specific pollutants in designated wellhead protection zones. Facilities that use regulated substances must register and comply with substance release standards and inspections. A list of regulated substances and uses, which is flexible, is also included... Read More

The Land Use Stabilization Wedge Strategy: Shifting Ground to Mitigate Climate Change
Date Added: Tuesday, May 9, 2017
Emissions, Energy Efficiency & Conservation, Land Use Planning, Local Environmental Law, Local Governance, Solar Energy, Wind Energy    
State: Not Applicable
This article by John R. Nolon was published in William & Mary Environmental Law & Policy Review. The article describes how local governments, through the clever application of existing land use techniques, can mitigate climate change. This strategic path follows one developed by Princeton professor Robert Socolow, who identified and described fifteen categories for organizing society's climate change mitigation efforts. Five of Socolow's strategic categories fall within the reach of local land use authority: reduced use of vehicles, energy effi.. Read More

Town of Pawling Timber Harvesting Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Timber Harvesting    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More


Town of Bedford Aquifer Protection Zone
Date Added: Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Aquifer Protection    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

As-of-right ADU in Raleigh, NC
Date Added: Tuesday, August 31, 2021
Accessory Uses , Affordable Housing , Healthy Communities    
State: Not Applicable
Previously restricted ADU construction to a specific overlay zone, did not allow ADUs as of right in any residential zone, and required residents to petition their neighbors when seeking to develop ADUs on their property. Now, Raleigh allows ADUs as of right in all residential zones without any significant restriction on their construction or subsequent use. This promotes affordable housing and encourages diversity in both housing stock and occupancy... Read More

City of Independence Solar Access Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Independence, Kansas has created an entire article within its Code of Ordinances specifically for solar access regulations. The article authorizes the citizens of Independence to enter into solar easement agreements with other property owners. These easements shall establish the “solar skyspace” envelope within which it “shall be unlawful for the owner of real property to erect a building or structure or to allow a tree, shrub or other flora to case a shadow upon a solar collector.” The majority of the article is focused on regulations for thes.. Read More

City of Annapolis Green Buildings: Energy Efficiency and Environmental Design
Date Added: Saturday, August 27, 2016
Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency    
State: Not Applicable
The City of Annapolis, the capital of Maryland, is set in the heart of the Chesapeake Bay. Only 29 miles east of Washington D.C., Annapolis has a population of 36,524 people, with a population density of 5,326 people per square mile. Annapolis has several public transportation options, including an eight-route bus system and railway connecting the city to nearby Washington D.C. and Baltimore. Annapolis uses an integrated approach in regulating the planning, design, and sustainability of buildings. The city’s sustainable building law manda.. Read More

County of Camden Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
In Camden County, North Carolina solar farms are permitted in all zoning districts, however, a special use permit must first be acquired. Within its zoning code, Camden County integrated a sub-section outlining standards for solar farms such as a minimum lot size, minimum setbacks, and a 50-foot buffer from routine view. Solar collectors as an accessory use are also permitted in all zoning districts in Camden County, however, in order to install them, an applicant must either obtain a special use permit (if there are three or more collectors) o.. Read More

Goodhue County Zoning Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, July 11, 2016
Solar Energy, Wind Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Goodhue County adopted solar energy system (SES) regulations in Article 19 of its zoning ordinance. These regulations define a ground-mounted SES as a solar collector located on the ground surface that is physically affixed or attached to the ground, including pole-mounted systems. The regulations define a roof-mounted SES as a solar collector located on the roof of a building or structure that may be physically affixed or attached to the roof. For both ground-mounted and roof-mounted SESs, the regulations include sub-definitions for residentia.. Read More

City of Boulder Green Building and Green Points Program
Date Added: Wednesday, February 3, 2016
Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency    
State: Not Applicable
The City of Boulder, Colorado, just 25 miles northwest of Denver, lies within Boulder Valley east of Rocky Mountain National Park. Boulder is known for its outdoor activities, including cycling and running, and has earned a reputation as “green” city due to the City’s walkability, transit oriented development, green building techniques, and overall aesthetically pleasing design. The Green Points Program (“Green Points”), created in 1996, was the first mandated municipal residential dwelling building code in the country. Boulder’s green building.. Read More

City of Burlington, Washington Zoning Regulations; Solar Access
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Section 14.48.110, placed within the City Code’s chapter on performance standards, lists solar access criteria for any new construction that is south of existing residential land in Burlington, Washington. The criteria include prohibiting multi family, commercial, or industrial structure more than one story in height from shading the maximum building envelope of any existing dwelling as determined by the angle of the sun on December 21st; site plans that show the shading impacts of new structures on existing dwellings or vacant lots; and measur.. Read More

City of Del Mar Solar Energy Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Del Mar, California has integrated an entire chapter in its zoning code on solar energy. The chapter “is intended to implement adopted federal, state, and local policies by decreasing the City’s dependence upon non-renewable energy systems for sources through the encouragement of solar energy systems for the hearing of buildings and water.” Chapter 23.20 goes on to define important terms used within the chapter and lists specific regulations for space heating and cooling of new structures, remodels of existing structures, and use of solar syste.. Read More

State of New York Local Leaders Guide to Moratorium on Development
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016
Comprehensive Planning, Local Boards, Moratoria    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

Town of Clifton Park Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Envision Cortlandt – 2016 Sustainable Comprehensive Plan
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018
Comprehensive Planning, Solar Energy    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Effect of Suburban Transit Oriented Developments on Residential Property Values
Date Added: Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Transit Oriented Development (TOD)    
State: Not Applicable
Community opposition is often a barrier to implementing Transit Oriented Development (TOD). In suburban areas, residents may feel that TOD will cause noise, air pollution, increased congestion and crime into their communities. This study was completed by the Mineta Transportation Institute to determine whether TODs have a negative effect on surrounding residential neighborhoods, which is shown through lower housing prices. Studying the impact of four San Francisco Bay Area suburban TODs and the data compiled suggested that homes within 0.5 mile.. Read More

Land trust response To renewable energy siting challenges in New York
Date Added: Wednesday, July 11, 2018
   
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

City of Asheville Zoning Regulations; Chapter 7 – Development, Section 29.1309- Solar Energy Systems
Date Added: Thursday, September 7, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
In its lengthy Zoning Ordinance, the City of Asheville has dedicated only a small subsection to the implementation of solar energy systems within its zoning districts. In Sec. 7-14-1(b)(a), the City’s only real general requirement is that “private, non-commercial solar energy systems shall comply with the minimum setback requirements.” The subsection goes on to describe the requirements for a variance the Board of Adjustment may grant to decrease the required setbacks or allow the installation to be located in the front yard. The subsection, ho.. Read More

Building Height Limits
Date Added: Monday, June 4, 2018
Healthy Communities, Traffic Calming & Safety    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

City of Albuquerque Subdivision Plat Procedures & Submission Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, March 19, 2017
Alternative Dispute Resolution, Local Boards, Pre-Application & Consensus Building    
State: Not Applicable
There is a moment reserved in the process for subdivision plat approvals where the applicant may be advised to schedule a review session with the Development Review Board by the Planning Director. In addition, mediation is considered as one of several methods of resolving conflicts arising through the complaint process for regulations in the zoning code, including those for community residential programs and emergency shelters. .. Read More

Town of Barnstable Wetlands Buffer Zone Regulation; Conservation Commission Regulatory Summary
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Buffer Zones, Coastal Protection, Development Standards, Sea Level Rise Adaptation    
State: Not Applicable
The Town of Barnstable’s Wetlands Buffer Zone Regulation Summary acknowledges that accelerated sea level rise will result in increased coastal erosion processes and impact land erosion, storm drainage, flooding and wetland loss. To address these impacts, the Town of Barnstable requires fifty-foot buffer zones for any land subject to flooding, inundation by groundwater, surface water, tidal action, or coastal storm flowage. In the Conservation Commission’s Regulation Summary, revised in 2006, the Commission established additional performanc.. Read More



City of Palm Bay Community Development Division: Housing Assistance Program
Date Added: Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Affordable Housing    
State: Not Applicable
The Community Development Division: Housing Assistance Program ordinance created the Local Housing Assistance Program to hold and distribute state money with all funds being distributed to moderate, low, and very low-income housing. The Program distributes loans with “affordable” monthly payments, as defined by FL Statute 420.9071(3)... Read More


Homekey
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Affordable Housing    
State: Not Applicable
California’s Statewide Hotels-to-Housing Initiative: Homekey is a California statewide program that allocated $846 million of federal CARES Act CRF funds, state funds, and philanthropic money to support acquiring hotels, motels, and other properties to be converted into housing for the homeless during Covid-19 with the goal that the majority of units will become permanent housing. Through an application process open to local public entities– including cities, counties, housing authorities, and federally recognized tribal governments–6,066 units.. Read More
Homekey
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Affordable Housing    
State: Not Applicable
California’s Statewide Hotels-to-Housing Initiative: Homekey is a California statewide program that allocated $846 million of federal CARES Act CRF funds, state funds, and philanthropic money to support acquiring hotels, motels, and other properties to be converted into housing for the homeless during Covid-19 with the goal that the majority of units will become permanent housing. Through an application process open to local public entities– including cities, counties, housing authorities, and federally recognized tribal governments–6,066 units.. Read More
Homekey
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Affordable Housing    
State: Not Applicable
California’s Statewide Hotels-to-Housing Initiative: Homekey is a California statewide program that allocated $846 million of federal CARES Act CRF funds, state funds, and philanthropic money to support acquiring hotels, motels, and other properties to be converted into housing for the homeless during Covid-19 with the goal that the majority of units will become permanent housing. Through an application process open to local public entities– including cities, counties, housing authorities, and federally recognized tribal governments–6,066 units.. Read More
Homekey
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Affordable Housing    
State: Not Applicable
California’s Statewide Hotels-to-Housing Initiative: Homekey is a California statewide program that allocated $846 million of federal CARES Act CRF funds, state funds, and philanthropic money to support acquiring hotels, motels, and other properties to be converted into housing for the homeless during Covid-19 with the goal that the majority of units will become permanent housing. Through an application process open to local public entities– including cities, counties, housing authorities, and federally recognized tribal governments–6,066 units.. Read More


ICMA/ The Solar Foundation’s A Beautiful Day in the Neighborhood: Encouraging Solar Development through Community Association Policies and Processes
Date Added: Tuesday, June 19, 2018
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
ICMA guidelines focus heavily on the visibility aspect of solar energy systems. Residential guidelines include that system panels should be mounted as close to the roof as possible, and no part of the installation should be visible above the peak of the roof to which it is attached. Panels also should not protrude above the roofline to be visible from adjacent properties, and pipes, wires, and mounting hardware must be unobtrusive... Read More

2017 Comprehensive Plan- Town of Reading, New York
Date Added: Monday, June 11, 2018
Comprehensive Planning, Economic Development, Land Use Planning, Solar Energy, Stormwater Management, Water Resource Protection, Wind Energy, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Traffic Calming & Safety, Parks & Recreation    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More


Land Use Law Center’s Model Critical Environmental Area Overlay District
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017
Overlay District, Wildlife & Fish Habitat, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
The following is a model law that can be used by municipalities to protect wildlife habitat and other critical environmental areas. .. Read More

Multi-modal Transportation Support
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018
Healthy Communities, Transportation Demand Management    
State: Not Applicable
Nassau County’s Comprehensive Plan calls for all development proposals to be reviewed for compliance with goal to promote multi-modal transportation that is safe and efficient, meeting minimum acceptable levels of service for all roadway segments. Chief among reviewing criteria is the project’s contribution to public health. The County will be using the most recent version of the FDOT Quality/Level of Service Handbook definitions to determine levels of service for roadways. Additionally, to promote walking and biking, the County will incorporat.. Read More
Future Development promoting increased Air Quality
Date Added: Wednesday, June 20, 2018
Transportation & Land Use Planning, Healthy Communities, Vulnerable Populations    
State: Not Applicable
To help avoid urban sprawl and reduce automobile use, Nassau created and adopted the East Nassau Community Planning Area (ENCPA) for future land use. The county has certain goals for development within the ENCPA, including: facilitating multi-modal transportation and creating communities that discourage urban sprawl. The goals of development within the ENCPA directly promote public health through encouraging walking and biking, making sure they are safe by planning for them to exist in the future, and decreasing the amount of pollution created .. Read More

Town of Berlin Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
In its Zoning Chapter, the Town of Berlin has created a section specifically for site design guidelines, Section 108-274. Within that section, Berlin has authorized solar energy use. A developer or owner must consider the feasibility and desirability of active and passive solar energy use before installation. Builders must also “orient proposed buildings and provide structures to provide for solar energy use and to preserve solar access of adjoining properties.” .. Read More



City of Cleveland Heights Zoning Supplementary Accessory Use Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Within its zoning supplementary accessory use regulations, Cleveland Heights, Ohio integrated two sub-sections on solar panels and building-mounted systems. Under its solar panels sub-section, Cleveland Heights lists certain regulations including the requirement that solar panels be placed so that concentrated solar radiation or glare is not directed onto nearby properties or roadways and that all power transmission lines from a ground-mounted solar energy system be located underground. Under its building-mounted systems sub-section, the city .. Read More

Town of Clifton Park Open Space Incentive Zoning
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017
Incentive Zoning, Open Space Preservation    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More


Town of Gilbert Water Conservation Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Landscaping, Water Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
The Town of Gilbert Water Conservation Ordinance was designed to reduce the amount of water used in residential and nonresidential development. The ordinance limits water intensive landscaping, limits high evaporative loss features and requires efficient irrigation systems for all new development projects... Read More


Alpharetta Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, January 27, 2016
Erosion & Sedimentation Control    
State: Not Applicable
The purpose of this ordinance is to decrease erosion and erosion hazards and to minimize flood damage by requiring permits for land disturbing activities. Undisturbed vegetative buffers of at least 35 feet along all state waters and of at least 50 feet along primary trout waters must be maintained with no exceptions. Runoff which results in a defined turbidity increase in receiving waters is considered a violation... Read More

Kansas City Disposal of Tires & Batteries Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017
Recycling    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance includes specific regulations for disposal of tires and batteries. .. Read More

County of Blaine Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Blaine County, Idaho has created a number of zoning regulations in its county code. As part of its regulations, Blaine County has dedicated a chapter specifically for solar utilities facilities. These regulations include how collector system panels and mounts are to be installed; height restrictions of BIPB and roof collected mounted panels; and the way in which ground and pole mounted solar collectors are to be anchored. Blaine County has also created additional standards for solar energy systems located within the county’s overlay districts. .. Read More

Multi-Family Dwelling District
Date Added: Sunday, June 3, 2018
Transportation Efficient Development, Healthy Communities    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Traffic Signals and Narrower Lanes to Improve Safety
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018
Healthy Communities, Traffic Calming & Safety    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

City of Wilmington Mixed Use District Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, August 28, 2016
Incentive Zoning, Mixed/Multiple Use    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance provides for the granting of density bonuses for various environmental improvements, transportation enhancements, affordable housing, preservation of historic resources and improvement of pedestrian facilities. The more significant the community benefit, the greater the bonus awarded. .. Read More

Infrastructure Upgrades and Multi-Modal Transportation
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018
Healthy Communities, Transportation Demand Management, Complete Streets    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More


City of Cottage Grove Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
In Cottage Grove, Minnesota, the city has established a Low-Density Residential District “where all public services, utilities and amenities needed for urban residential development are available” and development densities do not exceed five dwelling units per gross acre. Cottage Grove does permit density bonuses in this District between 0-5% if applicants demonstrate innovative energy conservation efforts, including orientation of lost for maximum use of passive solar energy and preservation of solar access for active solar energy systems. Sol.. Read More

Tucson Solar Integration Plan and Greater Tucson Solar Development Plan
Date Added: Monday, June 11, 2018
Solar Energy    
State: Not Applicable
Tucson, Arizona’s Solar Integration Plan and Greater Tucson Solar Development Plan lay the groundwork for accelerated development of solar energy facilities in and around Tucson, requiring the installation of a minimum amount of solar electric generation capacity by 2015. .. Read More

Town of Malta Historic Preservation Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017
Historic Preservation, Landmarks & Historical Districts    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

City of Hagerston Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Hagerston, Maryland has integrated an Alternative Energy Sources/Generators section, Section K(12), within its Zoning Ordinance supplementary regulations. According to that section, before an applicant can install a solar energy system on her property, she must first submit a zoning permit application with a plan for review by the Planning and Code Administration Division. “Once the zoning permit is approved, the applicant may apply for proper permits from the Code Administration Office.” Section K(12) permits ground-mounted solar collection sy.. Read More

Town of East Hampton Policy Statement & Coastal Overlay District Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Coastal Protection, Overlay District, Sea Level Rise Adaptation    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

City of Fayetteville Tree Preservation & Protection Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Landscaping, Tree Preservation & Protection    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance was enacted in order to provide for “regulation of the preservation, planning, maintenance, and removal of trees within the city.” This is achieved through the creation of a tree registry to protect trees that are valuable due to their history or their species. In addition, the ordinance provides guidelines for general protection of the trees under circumstances such as development, pruning, and planting. .. Read More

City of Longmont Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Thursday, September 7, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
In Longmont, Colorado, the City Code of Ordinance permits solar panels in all districts as an accessory use. However, the only regulation Longmont includes within its code for solar panels and/or energy systems is that “the height shall not exceed the maximum structure height for the zoning district in which they are located.” .. Read More

City of Clayton Planned Unit Development District Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017
Planned Unit Development, Smart Growth    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance establishes planned unit developments which support flexibility and innovative medium- and large-scale development in residential and commercial areas. It is intended to preserve natural features and functions (erosion control) and promote an aesthetically pleasing environment for residents and workers... Read More

Montclair Township Unified Land Use + Circulation Element Draft
Date Added: Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Land Use Planning, Transit Oriented Development (TOD)    
State: Not Applicable
The Montclair Township has experienced several shifts identified through a demographic, transportation, and economic analysis that will impact future municipal policy, such as decreasing household sizes, stagnant wages, increased housing prices, more people using transit to travel to work or working from home, an increased amount of elderly residents, and a lack of availability of a diverse range of housing types. The plan uses Unified Land Use and Circulation approach which is largely unprecedented in traditional Master Planning. Through inter.. Read More


City of Falcon Heights Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Falcon Heights, Minnesota has incorporated an extensive solar energy systems section with its Zoning Chapter. In Section 113-254, active solar energy systems are permitted as an accessory use in all zoning districts, subject to a number of regulations. Those regulations include height requirements for building- or roof-mounted, ground-mounted, and pole-mounted systems; a number setback requirements; and that “active solar energy systems be designed to blend into the architecture of the building or be screened from routine view from public right.. Read More

Town of Mamaroneck Local Impact Review
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016
Development Standards    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

State of North Carolina Environmental Impact Review Procedures
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017
Environmental Impact Review Requirements, State Land Use Law    
State: Not Applicable
North Carolina’s Environmental Policy Act, found at Article 1 in Chapter 113A, is modeled on the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA). The act applies to state agencies, but not local agencies. Under § 113A-8 of the act, however, local governments may require by ordinance “any special-purpose unit of the government or private developer of a major development project” to submit an environmental impact statement, as defined at § 113A-4(2). Any such ordinance must be applied consistently and shall exempt projects for which an EIS or its equiva.. Read More

Town of Falmouth Wetlands Regulations
Date Added: Thursday, May 4, 2017
Coastal Protection, Sea Level Rise Adaptation, Site Design Standards, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection    
State: Not Applicable
The Town of Falmouth’s Wetland Regulations recognize that “special transitional areas,” portions of coastal floodplains that are immediately landward of salt marshes, coastal dunes, and barrier beaches, require special protection. To that end, these regulations require that relative sea level rise be considered in development proposals, and that buildings and other structures in special transitional areas be designed to incorporate a relative sea level rise of at least one foot per 100 years in “A-zones” (coastal storm flowage zones) and at le.. Read More

Town of Greenburgh Wetlands & Watercourses Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017
Nonconforming Uses, Sewage Management, Drinking Water Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

City of Portland, Oregon Code, Title 33.218- Community Design Standards
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018
Historic District Preservation, Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Within their Community Design Standards, Portland, Oregon eliminated discretionary review of solar energy systems that adhere to community design standards, thereby making it easier for solar panels to be installed in historic districts... Read More

City of Modesto Density Bonus Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017
Affordable Housing , Incentive Zoning, Density    
State: Not Applicable
Under the Density Bonus Ordinance, Modesto’s density bonuses are awarded in relation to the percentage of affordable units provided. If a developer shows economic necessity, an additional incentive may be provided by the city (reduction in site development standards, modification of zoning requirements, financial incentives, and donation of land). A 25% density bonus may be awarded for condominium conversions if 33% of the total units are for moderate income, or 15% are reserved for low-income. A ten-year restriction is placed on the deed if.. Read More

City of Oakland Construction & Demolition Debris Recycling Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017
Recycling    
State: Not Applicable
As part of Oakland’s Sustainable Development Initiative, the city adopted the Construction and Demolition Debris ordinance that requires all new development and sizeable remodeling projects to reuse or recycle 50% or more of their waste and debris. Not only does this prevent construction materials from going to the landfill, but it also reduces the demand for new construction materials. .. Read More

Traffic Safety Policy
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018
Healthy Communities, Traffic Calming & Safety    
State: Not Applicable
The goal of San Diego, California’s “Mobility Element” plan is to develop a multi-modal transportation network that gets citizens where they want to go while minimizing environmental and neighborhood impacts. Among the goals of this policy, San Diego aimed to increase general traffic safety of pedestrians. The city collaborated with community groups and interested private and public parties to design and implement safe pedestrian routes to schools, transit centers, and other highly frequented destinations. After locating these priority areas.. Read More
Enhanced Public Rights of Way and Pedestrian-Oriented Features
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018
Healthy Communities, Complete Streets    
State: Not Applicable
The Mobility Element section of San Diego’s Comprehensive Plan makes facilitating walking and biking as viable forms of transportation a priority for the city. The plan calls for the creation of mixed-use neighborhoods connected by public transportation; building residences closer to parks, schools, shopping, employment and transit; and a safe and accessible walking environment created by designing streets to increase pedestrian safety. To accomplish this, San Diego plans to—among other things—enhance public rights of way, design site plans .. Read More

Town of Hailey Outdoor Lighting Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, January 19, 2017
Lighting    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More


City of Ashland Solar Access Ordinance; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
In its Zoning Code, the City of Ashland has dedicated a lengthy chapter on Solar Access. The purpose of the Solar Access chapter is “to provide protection of a reasonable amount of sunlight from shade from structures and vegetation whenever feasible to all parcels in the City to preserve the economic value of solar radiation falling on structures, investments in solar energy systems, and the options for future uses of solar energy.” The rest of the chapter provides requirements for where solar energy systems may be placed including lot classifi.. Read More

Town of Dover Transit Oriented Development Plan
Date Added: Thursday, November 5, 2015
Transit Oriented Development (TOD), Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
The Transit Oriented Development Plan (TOD) of the Town of Dover, New Jersey augments the existing land use patterns with new mixed-use residential and commercial development that are based on strong architectural form. It recommends form-based zoning changes, which will run concurrently to the Town’s Master Plan Process, that utilize historic planning and design practice while integrating recent market studies of the Town’s resources. The plan also focuses on pedestrian amenities through creating a strong streetscape program which creates a st.. Read More

City of Mapleton Critical Environmental Zone Clustering
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016
Clustering & Cluster Development    
State: Not Applicable
The Mapleton City Critical Environmental Zone includes an allowance for cluster zoning when such zoning will improve ridgeline protection, decrease or not increase environmental hazards, and decrease the cost of infrastructure to the city. While the overall allowed density is not increased, dwellings that have been approved for clustering are allowed an increase in density from one dwelling per three acres to one dwelling per acre. Designed open space in approved cluster development may be owned by the city or an approved non-profit. .. Read More

PAS Essential Info Packet: Planning & Zoning for Health in the Built Environment
Date Added: Wednesday, July 11, 2018
Comprehensive Planning, Land Use Planning, Healthy Communities, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
The Essential Info Packet provides planners with a collection of examples that demonstrate a connection between health and the built environment. These examples include zoning laws, policies, and how-to guidance on how communities across the country have addressed issues of public health. First it provides a list of sources which analyze the importance of creating a connection between health and the built environment. It also includes, collaborations with local governments and agencies, health impact assessments, comprehensive plans and toolkit.. Read More

Village of Croton-on-Hudson Visual Environment Advisory Board
Date Added: Wednesday, May 3, 2017
Development Standards, Local Boards, Quality of Life, Scenic Resources, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

County of Winnebago Comprehensive Plan: Dispute Resolution
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Alternative Dispute Resolution    
State: Not Applicable
The Memorandum of Understanding in the Winnebago Comprehensive Plan provides a dispute resolution process in the event inconsistencies arise between a town comprehensive plan and the County comprehensive plan. Participation in the mediation is voluntary and the resolution is decided by the parties. Information is to be held confidential and sessions will be private to the extent authorized by law. The process is paid for by the County and the respective town... Read More

City of Lewes Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Despite its lengthy Zoning Chapter, the City of Lewes in Delaware only mentions solar panels once throughout the entire chapter. The Chapter states that the Lewes Historic Preservation Commission may not deny the addition of solar panels in the city’s Historic District except to designate reasonable alternative design and/or placement. .. Read More


Accessory Dwelling Unit Handbook
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Accessory Uses , Affordable Housing , Healthy Communities    
State: Not Applicable
California’s new legislature reduces impediments on ADUs. Local legislatures may no longer use minimum lot sizes to limit ADU development, eliminates all owner occupancy requirements, prohibits local governments from setting maximum sizes under 850 square feet, renders CC&Rs void where unduly restrictive on ADU development, and requires local governments to create affordable units for various income levels. .. Read More


Town of New Milford Proposed Ordinance Concerning the Right-to-Farm
Date Added: Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Agriculture, Right-to-Farm    
State: Not Applicable
The town of New Milford established this right to farm ordinance limiting circumstances under which any such operation may be considered a nuisance. The ordinance specifies that any dispute over farming practices will be handled through mediation through the mayor’s office... Read More

City of Tucson Pre-Application Procedures Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017
Pre-Application & Consensus Building    
State: Not Applicable
The land use code subjects applications to a neighborhood meeting. Furthermore, a pre-application conference is required for all applications submitted by parties other than the City. § 5.4.1.2... Read More

Massachusetts Model Solar Bylaw: Allowing Use of Large-Scale Ground-Mounted Solar Photovoltaic Installations
Date Added: Monday, July 11, 2016
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
The Massachusetts Executive Office of Environmental Affairs’ Department of Energy Resources developed a model zoning bylaw that defines large-scale ground-mounted solar photovoltaic installation as solar photovoltaic systems that are structurally mounted on the ground (not roof-mounted) that have a minimum nameplate capacity of 250 kW DC... Read More

Long Island Sound Coastal Management Program
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017
Coastal Protection, Comprehensive Planning, Intermunicipal Agreements, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Community Opportunity to Purchase Act
Date Added: Tuesday, June 7, 2022
Affordable Housing , Displacement    
State: Not Applicable
San Francisco, California’s Community Opportunity to Purchase Act (COPA) requires sellers of buildings with three or more residential units, or vacant land that could be developed into three or more residential units, to give qualified non-profit organizations priority to purchase. COPA was created to prevent displacement and encourage the creation and preservation of affordable housing. .. Read More



County of Calcasieu Parish Coastal Zone Management Regulations
Date Added: Wednesday, February 10, 2016
Coastal Protection    
State: Not Applicable
Officially adopted in 1986, this ordinance allows the parish to take over more control and monitoring of the natural resources of the gulf coast. Although the ordinance is based on a state program, the program is optional and the ordinance gives the parish flexibility in the specifics. According to Pam Sturrock of the Calcasieu Parish Office of Planning and Development, the ordinance has been effective and relatively simple to enforce (Personal communication, April 9, 2003). .. Read More

Transit Oriented Development Best Practices Handbook
Date Added: Friday, July 17, 2015
Transit Oriented Development (TOD)    
State: Not Applicable
The Transit Oriented Best Practices Handbook explains Transit Oriented Development (TOD), its characteristics, its benefits, and its challenges by detailing the key planning principles behind successful TOD as well as summarizing practices for designing and implementing TOD. The document also contains an extensive list of best practice methodology and implementation techniques to assist communities in planning successful TOD... Read More


Town of Pawling Timber Harvesting Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017
Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Quality of Life, Timber Harvesting    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

Transit Supportive Planning Toolkit: Guidance and Resources for Plan and Policy Development
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Transit Oriented Development (TOD)    
State: Not Applicable
The Puget Sound region is estimated to grow to 5 million people and 3 million jobs by 2040 and in order to accommodate that growth, better access to a strong multimodal transportation system is needed. This Toolkit was developed by the Puget Sound Regional Council (PSRC) to provide strategies that strengthen the linkage between land use and transit in local plans and implementation regulations, as well as to provide important PSRC and transit agency contacts and web resources. The three general strategies for successfully implementing trans.. Read More

City of Ketchum Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
The City of Ketchum incorporates solar access throughout its zoning regulations. One way in which the city integrated solar access is in the context of parks. According to its regulations, parks will be designed to have open space for solar access during the colder months. Another example is within the city’s Design Review District. One of Ketchum’s purposes for that District is to “provide for and protect existing light, air, solar access and orientation, privacy, views, and vistas by the proper and efficient location of building sites and des.. Read More



City of Albuquerque Water Conservation Landscaping and Water Waste Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Landscaping, Water Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
This law attempts to set out guidelines for water conservation in Albuquerque, NM. It includes restrictions on landscape watering, guidance on water conservative fixtures for home building, and a program to promote xeriscaping. .. Read More


Town of Westport Protection of Water from Tree Spraying Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Aquifer Protection    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance protects the ponds and the lakes within the town from biochemical pollutants used in tree spraying, through the inspection of vehicles and equipment, as well as through the regulation of water use. The ordinance works establishing a permitting procedure through which certain types of equipment can be used. In addition, there are specified hours of operation as well as designated areas for collection of the water... Read More

Township of Chesterfield Transfer of Development Rights Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, May 9, 2017
Smart Growth, Transfer of Development Rights (TDR)    
State: Not Applicable
Chesterfield enabled a TDR program to create a town center in preparation for well-planned future growth. Chesterfield’s 1997 Master Plan envisioned a “neo traditional town center in the receiving area with a variety of housing types (including affordable housing), neighborhood shops and services, a school and other civic uses and recreational open space. Preserved farmland would surround the “planned village” and Chesterfield’s three historic hamlets. ” The TDR ordinance enabling that plan was passed in 1998 alongside a change to the zoning in.. Read More

Town of Gardiner Zoning Definitions & Word Use Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017
Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

Licking Township Sewage Sludge Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Sewage Management    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance from Licking Township, Clarion County, Pennsylvania requires that each ton of sewage sludge intended for land application be tested to prove that the levels of pollutants, pathogens, and vector attractants that are listed in the Pennsylvania Municipal Waste Regulations have not been exceeded. The township is concerned regarding potential harmful effects to its residents and local environment. A tipping fee is levied to pay for the collection and testing of truckload samples. This ordinance also requires that any type of sludge.. Read More

City of Pasadena Green Building Practices
Date Added: Saturday, August 27, 2016
Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency    
State: Not Applicable
The city of Pasadena, California has adopted into its municipal code Green Building Practices in order to promote sustainable development and environmentally-friendly construction. Pasadena is located in Los Angeles County, surrounded by the Raymond Fault Line, San Rafael Hills, and San Gabriel Mountains. Home to approximately 148,000 residents, the city is perhaps most famous for hosting the annual Rose Bowl college football game. In 2007, Pasadena became involved with other cities in the state (including Los Angeles, Sacramento, and San Fr.. Read More

City of Fairbault Zoning and Development Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Fairbault, Minnesota permits solar energy systems in all of its zoning districts. In a separate sub-section within its Code of Ordinances, Fairbault lists a few solar energy systems regulations that only apply to properties that have more than four square feet of solar panels. These regulations include a maximum of one hundred twenty square feet of solar panels on one property parcel; specific requirements for roof-mounted and ground-mounted systems; and that an applicant must obtain building and electrical permits for all systems over four squ.. Read More


Buildings and Building Regulation Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency    
State: Not Applicable
Under the Doraville, Georgia buildings and building regulation, the City formally adopts Version 2.2 of the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for New Construction and Major Renovations rating system (LEED-NC), any future amendments thereto will be reviewed by the City before consideration is given to the adoption of such amendments. Doraville is a northern suburb of Atlanta and covers 3.6 square miles with almost 11,000 residents. The area typically has hot humid summers and mild, but occasiona.. Read More
City of Doraville Buildings and Building Regulation Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, February 10, 2016
Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency    
State: Not Applicable
Under the Doraville, Georgia buildings and building regulation, the City formally adopts Version 2.2 of the U.S. Green Building Council’s (USGBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design for New Construction and Major Renovations rating system (LEED-NC), any future amendments thereto will be reviewed by the City before consideration is given to the adoption of such amendments. Doraville is a northern suburb of Atlanta and covers 3.6 square miles with almost 11,000 residents. The area typically has hot humid summers and mild, but occasiona.. Read More

Town of Dover Special Permits & Site Plan Review Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017
Pre-Application & Consensus Building, Site Plan Approval    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

Town of Coventry Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Despite its lengthy Zoning Code, Coventry, Rhode Island does not incorporate a section specifically detailing the requirements and regulations for solar energy systems. However, within its Transportation, Communications, and Utilities table (schedule) of uses under its Industry Section, solar power generators are permitted in mostly all of the zoning districts, with the exception of two types of residential districts, one business district, the Planned Development District, and the Special Planning Overlay District. The Zoning Code does not def.. Read More

Town of Eden Stormwater Management & Erosion Control Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, May 4, 2017
Development Standards, Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Stormwater Management    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

City of Austin Zoning Ordinance; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
The City of Austin, Texas has integrated zoning for solar within its zoning ordinance not as a separate section or chapter, but mostly within its Building Design Standards Article. According to its Zoning Ordinance, Austin permits solar collectors in Residential Use zoning districts as accessory use structures. In order to satisfy the building requirements under the Building Design Standards Article, each building must earn one point from a number of design options laid out in § 3.3.2, Table C. One of those options is to “integrate solar power .. Read More

City of Chapel Hill Land Use Management Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, May 9, 2017
Land Use Planning, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
The Chapel Hill Land Use Management Ordinance establishes standards and procedures for new development and redevelopment in the Town. The document provides rules under the Comprehensive Plan that tell applicants what is expected in order to gain approval to develop land in the town. The Ordinance provides the different requirements for the zoning districts... Read More

City of Bainbridge Island Affordable Housing Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, March 23, 2017
Affordable Housing , Incentive Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Chapter 18.90 of the Bainbridge Island Municipal Code describes the purpose, procedures, and zoning incentives related to the creation of affordable housing... Read More

City of Las Vegas Landscaping Ordinance: Turf Limitation
Date Added: Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Water Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
The City of Las Vegas Landscaping code includes a section limiting area that may be covered with turf in order to reduce irrigation requirements in the water limited desert of Nevada. Turf limitations range from 25% to 50% of landscapable land on a parcel that may be planted with turf based on the type of development. The remaining cover is to be water efficient landscaping. .. Read More

Culdesac Tempe: A Car-Free Neighborhood
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Affordable Housing , Mixed/Multiple Use, Pedestrian Oriented Design (POD), Transit Oriented Development (TOD), Density    
State: Not Applicable
Culdesac Tempe is a car free neighborhood in Arizona that has 636 housing units on 16 acres. All buildings are connected via walkways and courtyards. The development also has a bike share program and is located next to public transit. This is a mixed-use, high-density zone to encourage pedestrian-oriented development that provides housing opportunities for a variety of income levels... Read More

Manual of Build-Out Analysis
Date Added: Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Build-Out Analysis    
State: Not Applicable
The Manual of Build-Out Analysis is a detailed instruction on how to conduct a Build-Out Analysis broken down step-by-step, including a description of the data requirements, materials and techniques necessary to complete both the mapping and quantitative parts of the Analysis. The document is targeted for use by planning boards and commissions, groups concerned with growth management, and professionals in administrative and planning fields. Following the instructions set out in the Manual will result in a color-coded paper map and a numerical a.. Read More

Kearny Transit-Oriented Development Vision Plan
Date Added: Wednesday, November 4, 2015
Transit Oriented Development (TOD)    
State: Not Applicable
The Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Vision Plan of the Town of Kearny was developed by Regional Plan Association (RPA) to conduct a planning study of the area and a public visioning process for the Kearny Station area, near Bergen Avenue and the Harrison-Kingsland Branch Line, that was to be built as a part of New Jersey’s Access to the Region’s Core project. This report detailed the process of stakeholder meetings, a public community design workshop, and other public participation efforts RPA used to develop two consensus plans. The first o.. Read More

Township of Chesterfield Transfer of Development Rights Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017
Transfer of Development Rights (TDR), Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
The transfer of development rights program allows for the shifting of development pressure from agricultural, environmentally sensitive, or open space areas of the township to villages designated for limited growth. The program allows the township to maintain its rural character while encouraging planned development. Land is preserved by transferring development rights from “sending areas” in rural parts of the township to three existing villages and one new village that have been designated as “receiving areas” within community development b.. Read More


Worcester County, Maryland Alternative Energy Facilities Regulation
Date Added: Thursday, June 30, 2016
Alternative Energy, Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
In its alternative energy facilities regulation, Worcester County defines solar energy systems, in part, based on energy capacity. It defines large solar energy systems as those with a rated capacity of two hundred kilowatts or greater. Medium solar energy systems are ground-mounted systems with a rated capacity greater than five kilowatts but less than two hundred kilowatts or roof-mounted systems of any capacity in excess of five kilowatts. Finally, small solar energy systems have a rated capacity of five kilowatts or less. .. Read More


Town of Apex Exterior Lighting Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, January 25, 2017
Lighting    
State: Not Applicable
While the primary purpose of the ordinance is for human safety and minimizing the negative effects of lighting disturbance to neighboring properties, reducing excessive lighting not only conserves energy, but also increases visibility of the night sky resource... Read More

City of Asheville Hillside Area Development Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017
Ridgeline Protection    
State: Not Applicable
This law regulates the density of development on steep slopes and high elevations. It makes use of natural topography and relative steepness of slope to determine the nature of development and grading... Read More

Town of North Castle Wetlands Purpose Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017
Adult Entertainment, Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Scenic Resources, Stormwater Management, Wildlife & Fish Habitat, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Drinking Water Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

State of New York Hudson River Valley Greenway
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017
   
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

Parking Best Practices: A Review of Zoning Regulations and Policies in Select US and International Cities
Date Added: Friday, July 17, 2015
Parking    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Comprehensive Planning for Public Health: Results of Planning and Community Health Research Survey
Date Added: Tuesday, July 10, 2018
Comprehensive Planning, Healthy Communities, Equity    
State: Not Applicable
The American Planning Association devised a guide to reduce health inequities amongst communities. The guide states that careful designing, implementation strategies and individual or community resources can be used to reduce these health inequities. The guide is organized into four major points; “incorporating health equity into foundational skills for public health, maximizing tobacco-free living strategies to advance health equity, maximizing healthy food and beverage strategies and maximizing active living strategies to advance health equit.. Read More

Edwards Aquifer Protection Regulations
Date Added: Thursday, July 23, 2015
Aquifer Protection    
State: Not Applicable
In the San Marcos, Texas Code of Ordinances, Chapter 94 Development Standards, Edwards Aquifer Protection Regulations. The purpose of this ordinance is to protect the Edwards Aquifer from pollution. The aquifer has significant environmental, economic, and recreational values. The ordinance regulates development over the aquifer in order to protect health and environmental features such as endangered species. It functions by limiting impervious coverage in the recharge and transition zones of the aquifer... Read More

City of Hoboken Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Within its Zoning Chapter, the City of Hoboken in New Jersey has integrated a section specifically for solar installation. The section lists regulations for roof installation, non-habitable building installation, ground-mounted installation, and signage requirements. In order to install a solar energy system on a parcel, however, an applicant must first obtain a certificate of zoning compliance and a building permit from the Zoning Officer and the Construction Official, respectively. The City of Hoboken has also reserved the right to require th.. Read More

Town of Denton Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
According to Denton, Maryland’s zoning chapter, solar collectors and similar equipment, fixtures, and devices are exempt from district height limitation set forth within the rest of the chapter. The chapter, however, makes no mention of where solar collectors are actually permitted. Additionally, within its Bufferyard Requirements Appendix, the Town of Denton makes a small mention of solar access. In a sub-section under the Plant Material section, the Town allows for understory trees to be substituted for canopy trees where canopy trees would d.. Read More

City of Scottsdale Historic Property Zoning
Date Added: Saturday, August 27, 2016
Historic Preservation, Overlay District    
State: Not Applicable
The (HP) Historic Property zoning overlay district is intended to protect and enhance the cultural, historical, social or archaeological heritage of the City of Scottsdale. The HP District encourages the retention of historic resources by keeping them in active use in their original appearance, setting, and placement... Read More

Effects of the Built Environment on Transportation: Energy Use, Greenhouse Gas Emissions, and Other Factors
Date Added: Monday, July 20, 2015
Emissions, Energy Efficiency & Conservation, Transit Oriented Development (TOD)    
State: Not Applicable
This report is part of a series of report and tools developed as a part of the U.S. Department of Energy Transportation Energy Futures project. There is a substantial amount of literature that examines the relationship between the built environment, travel, and energy use and this report reviews and summarizes it. It was developed with the intent to inform national policy experts and decision makers about how changes to land use and the built environment could reduce transportation energy use and identifies possible federal actions that effect .. Read More

Town of Big Flats Aquifer Protection Overlay District Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017
Aquifer Protection, Overlay District, Zoning, Drinking Water Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

Town of Duck Rebuilding & Reconstruction; Damaging Storms Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Coastal Protection, Sea Level Rise Adaptation    
State: Not Applicable
The Town of Duck, on North Carolina’s Outer Banks, is a coastal community that has adapted local regulations implementing the State’s Coastal Areas Management Act of 1974. The Act encourages cooperative land use planning between the state and local governments and is the State’s policy that “adequate plans for post-disaster reconstruction should be prepared by and coordinated between all levels of government prior to the advent of a disaster.” The town of Duck created a short-term building moratorium to allow the community time to assess dama.. Read More

Agricultural Residential Zone for Readington Township in Hunterdon County
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Clustering & Cluster Development    
State: Not Applicable
Readington Township passed this Agricultural Residential Zone Ordinance to preserve open space and farmland. This ordinance requires that within the designated Agricultural Residential (AR) zone, any lots over 40 acres must be developed as 1.5 acre open space clusters. Land tracts that are 30 acres or greater adjacent to deed restricted farmland or open space within the AR zone must also be developed as 1.5 open space clusters. .. Read More


County of Leon Aquifer and Wellhead Protection Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Aquifer Protection    
State: Not Applicable
The ordinance protects and maintains the quality and quantity of groundwater in the county through the regulation of specific uses and wells. Requirements for the registration of businesses and agencies that use regulated substances and remediation activities should hazardous discharges occur are included. This regulation includes public education requirements, a provision for program funding through a fee system, and a mechanism for inspections... Read More

City of Little Rock Land Alteration Regulations
Date Added: Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Erosion & Sedimentation Control    
State: Not Applicable
The purpose of this ordinance is to prevent sedimentation and erosion from clearings within Little Rock, which has a number of hillside neighborhoods. The ordinance was developed and written by a citizens group and places limits on tree clearing and grading, requires a landscaping plan and that a qualified superintendent be on site during all land clearing activities. Additionally, the ordinance requires that all but the building permit be issued before approval of the grading permit and that construction is ‘imminent.’.. Read More

Town of Lewisboro Wetlands & Watercourses Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017
Buffer Zones, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

Establishing Urban Farming and Community Gardens
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018
Healthy Communities, Urban Farming & Community Gardens    
State: Not Applicable
Broadview, Bitter Lake, and Haller Lake (BBH) is a collaboration of neighborhoods in the city of Seattle who help to provide vision and planning procedures for community growth. One of these visions is greater access to local and healthy foods. Healthy food access has been shown to increase the health of the population, stimulate the local economy, and provide a better sense of community. In 2012, the BBH Neighborhood Plan Update included a short article on community-member interest in local and healthy food access. With the use of community re.. Read More

Town of Babylon Building Regulations §§ 89-91 to 89-95; Solar Zoning; Solar Panel Permit Application
Date Added: Monday, December 18, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Fairfax County, VA ADU
Date Added: Tuesday, August 31, 2021
Accessory Uses , Healthy Communities    
State: Not Applicable
ADUs in Fairfax County previously were only permitted in single family detached homes where approved by the Board of Zoning Appeals. The occupant of the main house or ADU was required to be at least 55 years old or have a disability. Only single-family residences are permitted to have an ADU and only interior ADUs are permitted as-of-right. The homeowner must live in one of the units and there must be at least one parking space for the ADU. The ADU can have a maximum of two bedrooms... Read More

Town of Livonia Land Conservation Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017
Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Floodplain Regulations, Historic Preservation, Open Space Preservation, Scenic Resources, Steep Slope Protection, Watershed Protection, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

Land Use Law Center Strategies for Sustainable, Economic Development Checklist
Date Added: Saturday, April 22, 2017
Economic Development, Land Use Planning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

State of New York Freshwater Wetlands Regulations
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017
Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Recreational Uses, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection    
State: Not Applicable
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,.. Read More

Village of Port Chester Waterfront Consistency Review Law
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017
Local Environmental Law, Waterfront Revitalization    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

Vermont Housing & Conservation Board Coronavirus Relief Fund: Vermont’s Statewide Initiative
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Affordable Housing    
State: Not Applicable
Partnering with non-profit housing developers and service providers, the Vermont Housing and Conservation Board (VHCB) developed a proposal to help shelter and create permeant housing for the homeless in response to Covid-19. Legislation in support of the proposal passed in June 2020, and $33 million of federal CARES Act Coronavirus RELIEF FUNDS (CRF) was allocated to VHCB to manage. As a result, 247 units destined to become permanent affordable housing were acquired and/or rehabilitated... Read More

State of Florida State Comprehensive Plan
Date Added: Thursday, May 4, 2017
Comprehensive Planning, Incentive Zoning, Smart Growth, Transportation & Land Use Planning    
State: Not Applicable
Below is the State of Florida’s Comprehensive Plan. The plan provides an example of a state legislature’s attempt to guide its constituent regions and municipalities in their respective efforts towards planning and development. Elements of the Priority Growth District concept are present in this plan... Read More

Town of Hyde Park Water Resources Protection Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017
Water Conservation, Watershed Protection, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Parking Policy for Transit-Oriented Development: Lessons for Cities, Transit Agencies, and Developers
Date Added: Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Transit Oriented Development (TOD), Parking    
State: Not Applicable
Parking policy is a key factor that can improve the performance of rail transit and Transit Oriented Development (TOD). This article evaluated information and insights of three studies on residential TODs, office TODs, and joint development of transit agency station parking in California. Results from the literature review showed that TOD parking supply and pricing policy are seldom structured to support transit ridership goals. The author has formulated policy recommendations for transit agencies, cities, and developers to improve parking poli.. Read More


Town of New Paltz Steep Slope Protection Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017
Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Flood Prevention, Scenic Resources, Steep Slope Protection, Wildlife & Fish Habitat, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

City of Big Flats Subdivision and Development Regulations § 17.36.140; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Monday, December 18, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Portland, OR Green Roofs
Date Added: Tuesday, August 31, 2021
Healthy Communities, Climate Change Planning    
State: Not Applicable
Portland requires all new buildings with a net building area of 20,000 square feet or more in the Central City Plan District zoned CX, EX, RX, and IG1 to have green roofs (33.510.243 Ecoroofs). Up to 40% of the roof can alternatively house mechanical equipment, skylights, solar panels, wind turbines, rain capture equipment, or common areas. Green roofs are cooler than conventional roofs, help with air pollution, and keep buildings cooler... Read More

Town of Somers Planned Hamlet (PH) District
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Comprehensive Planning, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

Town of Marana Erosion and Sedimentation Control Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Floodplain Regulations    
State: Not Applicable
This code is designed to meet or exceed state and federal floodplain management requirements, control development in erosion or flood hazard areas, and enhance groundwater recharge, and applies to all development within the town. All development within floodplain or erosion hazard areas require a permit, unless maintenance actions do not obstruct flow of floodwater and do not exceed a $1500 cost of improvement. There are floodway fringe requirements that restrict fill and alignment of structures to direction of flood flow. Erosion and sedimenta.. Read More

City of Rogers Land Alteration Regulations
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance attempts to minimize the ecological disturbances resulting from development of land. In particular, this ordinance sets up guidelines and requirements for the use of such erosion/sedimentation control structures as stormwater screenings and silt fences. The ordinance requires that developers obtain a grading permit before beginning work on a site, and that they draw up grading and drainage plans certified by engineers, detailing how erosion will be controlled and how trees will be protected... Read More

Township of Jackson Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Within its Zoning Resolution, Jackson Township in Ohio has included a chapter on solar energy systems. According to the chapter, an accessory solar energy system is permitted as an accessory use in any district, subject to a number of regulations outlined in sections throughout the rest of the chapter. Some of those regulations include specific requirements for roof/structure mounted and ground/pole mounted systems as well as solar energy production facilities. For example, a solar energy production facility must be located on at least five ac.. Read More


Township of Fairfield 2010 Build-Out Analysis
Date Added: Wednesday, November 4, 2015
Build-Out Analysis    
State: Not Applicable
The 2010 Build-Out Analysis by Fairfield Township in Cumberland County, New Jersey examined the amount of development authorized by its zoning code. The final document was endorsed by the Fairfield Township Environmental Commission, and adopted by the Fairfield Township Land Use Board as an Amendment to the Master Plan. The methodology used by the Township in the Build-Out Analysis is set forth as well as the zoning standards and acreage for each district type. The document utilizes lists, charts, and maps to illustrate the data collected for t.. Read More


City of Albany Zoning Ordinance; Section 375-93- Solar Energy Equipment
Date Added: Thursday, September 7, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

Development and Design Standards
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018
Open Space Preservation, Healthy Communities    
State: Not Applicable
In chapter 21.07 of the Code of Ordinances of Anchorage, Alaska, the city outlines an updated standard of city planning based on the relationship between urban development and the natural environment. The purpose of the chapter is to encourage a prudent use of the local land by promoting a balance between the built environment and the preservation of open space and natural resources. This can be simplified into two primary objectives. First, their public planning integrates usable open space and natural attractions in order to tailor the cit.. Read More

County of Beaufort Rural Land Purchase of Development Rights Program
Date Added: Wednesday, April 12, 2017
Purchase of Development Rights    
State: Not Applicable
The purpose of this ordinance is to create a purchase of development rights (PDR) program that enables the preservation of rural and critical lands in Beaufort County. Land must meet certain requirements in order for a conservation easement to be funded... Read More

Parking Lots, Where Motorists Become Pedestrians
Date Added: Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Parking    
State: Not Applicable
In Parking Lots, Where Motorists Become Pedestrians John A. Stark aims to address physical design components of parking lots in terms of safety, environmental protection, and a shared experience between cars and pedestrians. The interactions between pedestrians and cars are often considered in terms of separating the two modes of traffic or how to make street intersections between the two safer. However, in a parking lot people drive in the middle of a pedestrian path when searching for a space and conversely, pedestrians are often forced to wa.. Read More

City of Scottsdale Environmentally Sensitive Lands Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, April 16, 2017
Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance works to preserve native desert lands and open space from development as on-lot easements or separate lots within any given property or subdivision. Natural Area Open Space (NAOS) within any given property is determined by slope and landform category and has protected thousands of acres of desert within the city’s developing landscape... Read More

City of Saratoga Springs New York Zoning Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, May 31, 2017
Stormwater Management, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

City of Dubuque Unified Development Code; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
In Dubuque, Iowa’s Unified Development Code, solar collectors are permitted in Single-Family Residential Districts, Two-Family Residential Districts, Alternate Two-Family Residential Districts, Moderate Density Multi-Family Residential Districts, Multi-Family Residential Districts, Office Residential Districts, and Office Commercial Districts as accessory use structures. Dubuque’s Development Code also includes a Sustainable Subdivision Development program whereby applicants must achieve a minimum score of forty points by utilizing a list of to.. Read More

A New Transit-Oriented Development District Zoning Regulation for Meriden
Date Added: Friday, July 17, 2015
Transit Oriented Development (TOD), Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Meriden, Connecticut prepared a presentation for a public information meeting outlining the new Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) Regulation. The presentation detailed the goals and implementation strategies, laid out TOD sub-districts, use regulations, parking standards, development standards, density goals, and detailed the TOD Master-Plan. In addition to laying out the details of the regulations, the presentation had many maps and mock-ups showing how the development would look in different districts on different streets, including aerial v.. Read More

Town of North Salem Historic Road Preservation Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017
Historic Preservation, Transportation & Land Use Planning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Yolo County, California Code § 8-2.1104, .1105
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Yolo County’s solar energy regulations allow approval of small solar energy systems for onsite uses through the issuance of a building permit and a zoning clearance, provided the application meets setback and other standards set forth in the solar energy regulation. . If the County’s chief building official believes a small solar energy system could have a specific, adverse impact upon the public health and safety, the official may require the applicant to apply for a use permit. Medium-sized solar energy systems for onsite and/or offsite uses .. Read More

Hackensack Transit Oriented Development
Date Added: Thursday, April 6, 2017
Transit Oriented Development (TOD)    
State: Not Applicable
The Hackensack, New Jersey Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Report focuses on the process of a community-based vision to bring TOD to the areas surrounding the city’s two NJ TRANSIT rail station and its bus terminal, as well as the recommendations that resulted from the process. The development plan builds upon assets already present in Hackensack, such as its dense and diverse population, it being the seat of county government and that there is a growing health care sector centered on Hackensack University Medical Center. The report is a com.. Read More

City of San Marcos Edwards Aquifer Protection Regulations
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Aquifer Protection    
State: Not Applicable
In San Marcos, Texas Code of Ordinances, Chapter 94 Development Standards, Edwards Aquifer Protection Regulations. The purpose of this ordinance is to protect the Edwards Aquifer from pollution. The aquifer has significant environmental, economic, and recreational values. The ordinance regulates development over the aquifer in order to protect health and environmental features such as endangered species. It functions by limiting impervious coverage in the recharge and transition zones of the aquifer... Read More

County of Miami-Dade Coastal Management Planning Element
Date Added: Saturday, April 15, 2017
Coastal Protection, Sea Level Rise Adaptation    
State: Not Applicable
The Board of County Commissioners for Miami-Dade County, Florida, adopted the Planning Commission’s Comprehensive Development Master Plan (CDMP) in order to promote general welfare, maintain conditions under which people and nature can coexist in “productive harmony” and fulfill social, economic, and other requirements for present and future generations. Section 2-113.1 of the Codex specifically incorporates the CDMP’s Planning Elements. The Coastal Management Planning Element requires that sea level rise projected by the federal government b.. Read More

Get Healthy Philly 2015 Annual Report
Date Added: Tuesday, July 17, 2018
Land Use Planning, Healthy Communities    
State: Not Applicable
The Get Healthy Philly program was launched in 2010 as a public health initiative aimed to prevent disease, increase accessibility to healthy foods, promote increased physical activity through open space design and planning for walkability, and encourage smoke-free policies. This program, developed by the City’s Department of Public Health, is focused on six major strategies: media and communication campaigns regarding the benefits of exercise and tobacco-free environments; policies aimed at decreasing exposure to secondhand smoke and increasin.. Read More

City of Hayward Green Buildings Requirements for Municipal and Private Developments
Date Added: Saturday, August 27, 2016
Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency    
State: Not Applicable
The City of Hayward is the sixth largest city in the San Francisco Bay Area. As of 2007, Hayward’s estimated population was 155,312 residents. The City has a total area of 63 square miles, of which 29.68% is water. The City is located on the Hayward Fault, an earthquake fault, which is still the center of town. Hayward has transit stations for the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART), a heavy-rail system that connects San Francisco with various East Bay cities. Hayward is located in the environmentally active California San Francisco Bay, and the C.. Read More

Town of New Windsor Stormwater Management & Stormwater Pollution Prevention
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017
Local Environmental Law, Stormwater Management, Watershed Protection    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More


City of Springfield Drinking Water Protection (DWP) Overlay District
Date Added: Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Aquifer Protection, Overlay District, Drinking Water Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
Springfield created a Drinking Water Protection Overlay District that contains four time of travel zones (TOTZ) around its wellheads “to protect aquifers used as potable water supply sources by the City from contamination.” Within these zones the ordinance restricts use of hazardous materials, which could potentially enter and harm the groundwater. The district includes 0-1, 1-5, and 10-20 year TOTZ... Read More

City of Ferndale Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Ferndale, Michigan permits solar energy systems in all of its zoning districts as an accessory structure, subject to a number of requirements. These requirements include that the systems meet all other applicable construction codes; the design of the system must conform to applicable industry standards; and that the systems be screened per the discretion of the community development department. Solar energy systems, according to a sub-section within Ferndale’s Zoning Chapter, also have to meet the height and setback requirements of the zoning d.. Read More



Building a Transit-Friendly Community
Date Added: Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Transit Oriented Development (TOD), Parking    
State: Not Applicable
This report is based on key findings and conclusions from NJ Transit’s “Transit-Friendly Communities for New Jersey” pilot community program. The report takes those lessons and translates them into helpful information to guide and assist other communities’ efforts for transit-friendly development, on topics such as access, development, and parking. The process used is broken down into steps to assist other communities in getting the process started... Read More

State of New York Long Island Pine Barrens Maritime Reserve Act
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017
Comprehensive Planning, Land Use Planning, Local Boards, Scenic Resources, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

City of Mandeville Comprehensive Land Use Regulation Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016
Comprehensive Planning, Land Use Planning, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Adopted in 1993 and last updated in June 2002, this very extensive comprehensive plan serves as the zoning ordinance for the city. .. Read More

Unified Development Regulations
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Affordable Housing , Mixed/Multiple Use, Density, Infill    
State: Not Applicable
The zoning code was amended to create a mixed-use residential district to promote infill while also maintaining community character. This technique would allow for much of the zoning code, and therefore community, to remain the same while certain aspects are changed to promote Missing Middle development. The city targets affordable housing as a major factor in this development... Read More

City of Baltimore Special Tax Sale Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, April 15, 2017
Vacant & Distressed Properties    
State: Not Applicable
The Maryland State Legislature enacted House Bill 743 in 2000. This Bill created a procedure known as a special tax sale in Baltimore, Maryland. Upon a commitment by a purchaser to quickly foreclose and redevelop properties, the City may package vacant properties in a tax lien sale, setting the minimum bid prices less than the full amount of payments owed on the property, including unpaid taxes, fines and penalties assessed on the unpaid taxes, and the costs incurred in making the sale. If the purchaser fails to comply with the stipulations .. Read More

City of Orlando Density and Intensity Bonuses
Date Added: Sunday, August 28, 2016
Incentive Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Density and intensity bonuses are available for development in office, mixed-use corridor, and activity center districts in order to provide incentives for infill and redevelopment and to reduce travel distance and promote energy conservation by limiting urban sprawl. Such development must provide connections to public transit and enhance bicycle and pedestrian accessibility. The ordinance also incorporates a transportation linkage incentive that allows reduction of the minimum required intensity in exchange for contributions to a city transpo.. Read More

Town of Amherst Development Methods Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, May 9, 2017
Clustering & Cluster Development, Open Space Preservation, Planned Unit Development, Smart Growth    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance provides for a variety of Smart Growth activities within the town including cluster development, planned unit development, and open space community development according to general standards... Read More

Town of Gorham Land Use and Development Code § 1A-4[A][4]- Solar Access; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
The Town of Gorham’s density bonus provisions provide a maximum density bonus of 25% over the allowable base density for residential and nonresidential uses in planned unit developments (PUD) in exchange for public amenities, including solar access and energy efficient design, layout, and construction. To qualify for a bonus of 5 percent above the allowable base density, a PUD may provide solar access to 40 percent of the dwelling units and ensure through appropriate deed restrictions that dwelling units will utilize solar energy systems for wa.. Read More

The City of Redmond Site Requirements for Residential Zones Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, May 23, 2017
Development Standards, Land Use Planning, Planned Development Districts    
State: Not Applicable
The City of Redmond established basic site requirements for residential zones while implementing Redmond’s Comprehensive Plan, the Growth Management Act, and the County-Wide Planning Policies. These requirements set basic dimensional standards for residential development while providing flexibility in project design, maintaining privacy between adjacent users, and preventing public nuisances. There is a prescribed level of permitted density, this is to maintain a consistent and compatible land use pattern in Redmond’s residential neighborhood. .. Read More

From Fitness Zones to the Medical Mile: How Urban Park Systems Can Best Promote Health and Wellness
Date Added: Tuesday, July 10, 2018
Healthy Communities, Parks & Recreation    
State: Not Applicable
The Trust for Public Land conducted a study and determined that in order for a park system to poster mental and physical well-being, it must be used by the public. The professionals in the fields of public and mental health, parks and recreation, landscape architecture, and urban planning discussed and analyzed park elements such as trails, sports fields, playgrounds, drinking fountains, restrooms, and other facilities, and how they are provided, promoted, and signed. The professionals also considered important variables external to the parks s.. Read More

Promoting Public Health Through Smart Growth: Building Healthier Communities Through Transportation and Land Use Policies and Practices
Date Added: Thursday, July 12, 2018
Smart Growth, Healthy Communities    
State: Not Applicable
This document emphasizes how living smart growth communities leads to greater overall public health. It discusses practices that can be used in a variety of locations and focuses on how planners should create compact development that allow people to walk to their homes, supermarkets, schools and retail. These strategies are also used to achieve economic, social and environmental objectives goals, such as reducing climate change, air pollution and traffic congestions, increasing convenience and accessibility for people of all ages and increasing.. Read More

Town of Babylon Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

City of Lenexa Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Within Lenexa’s Zoning District Regulations, solar energy systems are permitted as an accessory use. According to the regulations, solar energy systems are to be designed to be compatible with the surrounding neighborhood and comply with a number of standards. Those standards include maintenance and access; location; and compliance with the Building Code requirements. The Regulations also outline specific requirements for roof-mounted equipment. .. Read More

Village of Hastings-on-Hudson, Permitted Accessory Uses Regulation: ADUs
Date Added: Friday, June 23, 2023
Accessory Uses    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

S.M.A.R.T Housing™ Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, June 7, 2022
Affordable Housing , Impact Fees, Displacement    
State: Not Applicable
Austin, Texas’s S.M.A.R.T Housing™ is housing that is safe, mixed-income, accessible, reasonably priced, transit oriented, and compliant with the city’s building code. The City’s S.M.A.R.T Housing™ program encourages the development of S.M.A.R.T housing™ by waving certain development fees and exempting the development fees from impact fees. In the City, a department cannot change an ordinance, rule, or process that impacts affordability of housing unless the City’s Neighborhood Housing and Community Development Department prepares an affordabil.. Read More


Town of Babylon Coastal Erosion Hazard Zone Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Coastal Protection, Erosion & Sedimentation Control    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

County of Maui Planned Development Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, April 18, 2017
Open Space Preservation, Planned Development Districts, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
Maui County Zoning Ordinances include provisions for Planned Development and Lot Reduction, Open Space Incentives, and Cluster Development Overlay Zones. Planned Development is intended to encourage better design and land use, protect the natural environment, minimize traffic congestion, and improve living conditions. At least 20% of Planned Developments must be preserved as protected open space and designed as a park-like area. Lot reductions of 20% and multi-unit buildings are permitted in these developments, specific numbers depending on und.. Read More


City of New York Executive Order 230 & Executive Order 233
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016
Flood Prevention, Floodplain Regulations, Floodwater Management, Post-Disaster Management    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Policies Encouraging Farmers Markets
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018
Healthy Communities, Farmers Markets    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Borough of Red Bank Planning & Development Regulations
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017
Pre-Application & Consensus Building    
State: Not Applicable
This statute allows for an informal discussion period in the pre-zoning planning process. These discussions are non-binding. .. Read More

City of Tampa Upland Habitat Protection Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017
Overlay District, Wildlife & Fish Habitat    
State: Not Applicable
The Upland Habitat Protection Ordinance was designed to protect the xeric and mesic plant communities and wildlife habitat in Tampa. The ordinance achieves this by establishing an overlay district and requiring plan approval before the commencement of development within the district... Read More

County of Maricopa Floodplain Regulations
Date Added: Wednesday, April 13, 2016
Floodplain Regulations    
State: Not Applicable
Maricopa County started its flood control program in 1959 because of excessive flooding in the town of Phoenix. These floodplain regulations are innovative because of their completeness and the details they include for each designated floodplain zone. FEMA has delegated Maricopa County to do its own mapping which guarantees more up-to-date and inclusive floodplain mapping information for this fast-growing area. The ordinances are therefore applicable to a greater area and population... Read More

Floodplain Regulations for Maricopa County
Date Added: Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Floodplain Regulations    
State: Not Applicable
Maricopa County started its flood control program in 1959 because of excessive flooding in the town of Phoenix. These floodplain regulations are innovative because of their completeness and the details they include for each designated floodplain zone. FEMA has delegated Maricopa County to do its own mapping which guarantees more up-to-date and inclusive floodplain mapping information for this fast-growing area. The ordinances are therefore applicable to a greater area and population... Read More

Eliminating Barriers to Transit-Oriented Development
Date Added: Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Transit Oriented Development (TOD), Parking    
State: Not Applicable
In New Jersey, two of the main barriers to implementing Transit Oriented Development (TOD) are community concern about new development potentially causing parking problems and increased traffic and negative fiscal impacts due to increased school enrollment. In order to determine if those concerns were warranted, this report studied differences between households located within a half mile radius of ten selected rail stations in New Jersey and those located in the nearby region. This report compared auto use, auto ownership, parking use, and sch.. Read More

Sustainable Development Checklist
Date Added: Monday, June 4, 2018
Healthy Communities, Climate Change Planning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Town of Yorktown Landmark Preservation Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, August 27, 2016
Historic Preservation, Quality of Life    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

Parking Spaces / Community Places, Finding the Balance through Smart Growth Solutions
Date Added: Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Smart Growth, Parking    
State: Not Applicable
This guidebook by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency illustrates parking issues faced by municipalities and explains suggested alternatives to parking. Viewed through the lens of the impact of parking on the environment, the importance of mixed-use, walkable areas that balance parking with other environmental concerns are illustrated through case studies of cities throughout the United States that municipalities can look to for assistance with Smart Growth. .. Read More

Miami, FL Tree Requirements
Date Added: Tuesday, August 31, 2021
Healthy Communities, Climate Change Planning    
State: Not Applicable
The City of Miami requires a tree permit “prior to the removal, relocation, root pruning or trimming more than 25% of any tree” and “prior to the removal, relocation, root pruning or trimming of any tree, plant or shrub located in any portion of the City of Miami’s right-of- way.” Chapter 17 of the city’s code was enacted to protect, preserve and restore the tree canopy. It is notable in that this applies to private property owners too... Read More

Accessory Uses of Land in New York State
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016
Accessory Uses , Local Boards, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

Chapter 20.28 Infill Housing
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Affordable Housing , Density, Infill    
State: Not Applicable
City code includes Infill Development chapter used to implement comprehensive plan goals related to infill development. This development is permitted in all zones except single-family, aside from single-family zones that permit cluster subdivisions. It sets site size, setback, parking, and open space requirements for each type of multi-family development... Read More


Multigenerational Planning: using smart growth and universal design to link the needs of children and the aging population
Date Added: Wednesday, July 11, 2018
Smart Growth, Healthy Communities, Equity    
State: Not Applicable
This article discusses how multigenerational planning is a “holistic approach” that assess the needs of many different age groups while planning policies that include zoning, local laws and building codes. The ultimate goal is creating a community that ensures “generational equality”. The article begins by discussing changes in population and demographics that impact how planners address certain issues. It articulates the needs, wants and concerns of each age group and what kind of communities they look to live in. Planners must provide a desig.. Read More

City of Bainbridge Island Accessory Dwelling Units Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, March 23, 2017
Accessory Uses , Affordable Housing , Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Chapter 18.89 of Bainbridge Island Municipal Code describes zoning provisions for accessory dwelling units. The law includes provisions for entrances, setback distance from the main residence, and school fees, among other provisions... Read More

City of Santa Fe Water Harvesting and Irrigation Standards
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Aquifer Protection, Landscaping, Water Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance discusses ways of harvesting water for irrigation. The goal of the ordinance is to preserve potable water as much as possible by making use of water gained from other sources. Water sources encourages are passive water collection techniques such as surface water collection, in-ground storage collection, and active water collection such as storage and distribution systems... Read More

Driving Urban Environments: Growth Parking Best Practices
Date Added: Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Smart Growth, Parking    
State: Not Applicable
Parking is one of the biggest challenges to smart growth because it consumes large amounts of land that could be developed. Parking requirements now drive many site designs and play a crucial role in financing for new developments. Maryland conducted a study which identifies and addresses best practices for three areas of parking challenges faced by developers, which are parking management, which identifies strategies to control the supply and demand for parking, parking design, which proposes strategies that reduce the aesthetic and environmen.. Read More

Town of Ellington Crystal Lake Sewerage System Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Sewage Management    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance sets out the methodology by which the Water Pollution Control Authority (WPCA) assesses residential and commercial property owners in the Crystal Lake area most benefited by the sewer system constructed to eliminate public health hazards of under-sized, on-lot disposal systems and raw wastewater discharges in this high density area. Vacant land shall not be assessed by the WPCA until it is built upon and derives direct benefit from the system. Assessments may be spread out over up to 30 years, as determined by the WPCA, but remai.. Read More
Town of Ellington Hockanum River Watershed Sewerage System Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, May 4, 2017
Sewage Management, Watershed Protection    
State: Not Applicable
This law details the Water Pollution Control Authority’s ability to assess commercial and residential pieces of property abutting sewer lines and connected to sewer lines. Definitions for use within this law include deferred assessment, capacity charge, commercial property, industrial property, sewer lateral line, residential unit assessment, and storage space. The law details how assessment of benefits occurs with residential property, commercial and industrial property, developer-constructed sewer extensions, and farmland. While all properti.. Read More

City of San Jose Amendments to Zoning Code to Reduce Parking Requirements
Date Added: Monday, November 14, 2016
Transportation & Land Use Planning, Parking    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance amends Chapter 20.90 of the City of San Jose Zoning Code to reduce parking requirements for specific ground floor uses on properties designated with the Neighborhood Business District General Plan overlay, and to reduce parking requirements for ministorage uses citywide... Read More

Establishing Land Use Protections for Community Gardens
Date Added: Tuesday, June 26, 2018
Healthy Communities, Urban Farming & Community Gardens    
State: Not Applicable
Local governments are promoting healthy eating and active living by supporting community gardens, which are spaces where community residents can gather to cultivate different crops. Planning for Healthy Places, which is a Public Health Law & Policy, has created a set of complementary model land use policy to help communities, specifically in California, create and preserve community gardens. This resource provides examples of communities that have existing laws and policies promoting community gardens and other resources that provide helpful in.. Read More
Establishing Land Use Protections for Community Gardens
Date Added: Tuesday, June 26, 2018
Healthy Communities, Urban Farming & Community Gardens    
State: Not Applicable
Local governments are promoting healthy eating and active living by supporting community gardens, which are spaces where community residents can gather to cultivate different crops. Planning for Healthy Places, which is a Public Health Law & Policy, has created a set of complementary model land use policy to help communities, specifically in California, create and preserve community gardens. This resource provides examples of communities that have existing laws and policies promoting community gardens and other resources that provide helpful in.. Read More

County of Beaufort Comprehensive Plan – Affordable Housing Policy
Date Added: Thursday, March 23, 2017
Affordable Housing , Comprehensive Planning    
State: Not Applicable
The Comprehensive Plan of the County offers a complete summation on the need for affordable housing and the problems that accompany implementation. The plan contains several policies to facilitate an effective affordable housing program. The recommendations include: creating public/private/community consensus, the leveraging of resources and the encouragement of a variety of housing types. Policy Five suggests using high-density residential prototypes, expedited review and approval, and targeted financial incentives. .. Read More

City of Austin Land Development Ordinance - Alternative Dispute Resolution Provision
Date Added: Wednesday, February 3, 2016
Alternative Dispute Resolution    
State: Not Applicable
Interested parties, as defined in the statute, are provided with a process to meet, discuss, and attempt to resolve issues raised by an appeal of an administrative decision in a “meeting to resolve issues.”.. Read More

Town of Normal Environmentally Sensitive Design Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, August 27, 2016
Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency    
State: Not Applicable
The town of Normal rests in the heart of central Illinois, with a population of roughly 50,000 residents. Over the past several years, the town has been making efforts to revitalize its downtown area through new construction projects, remodeling of older buildings, and more modern infrastructure. Recognizing the importance of sustainable development, the Town Council formed the “Green Team” in 2006, to advance Normal’s environmental stewardship initiative. Additionally, the Council passed an ordinance to promote “Environmentally Sensitive De.. Read More

Increasing Available Housing through Infill Development
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018
Affordable Housing , Healthy Communities, Brownfields    
State: Not Applicable
Sacramento’s 2035 General Plan sets a goal of ensuring that the production of housing will meet future needs. To meet this goal the General Plan establishes policies that require the promotion of quality infill development specifically focused on the creation of affordable units. The City plans to offset the costs of developing affordable housing through deferred fees and financial incentives including water development fee waivers and sewer credits. Not only will this help to eliminate brown zones in the city, but the increase in affordable.. Read More


City of San Diego Municipal Code - Alternative Dispute Resolution Provision
Date Added: Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Alternative Dispute Resolution    
State: Not Applicable
In the interest of gaining compliance with municipal statutes (including zoning/land use laws), the San Diego city council enacted a statute to allow for mediation of all disputes involving San Diego statutes as well as applicable California and federal statutes. The municipal code allows for both mediation and facilitation. .. Read More


Town of Woodstock Ordinance Concerning the Right-to-Farm
Date Added: Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Agriculture, Right-to-Farm    
State: Not Applicable
The town of Woodstock established this right to farm ordinance protecting agricultural or farming operations. The ordinance prohibits certain ramifications of farming from being considered nuisances, either public or private... Read More

Buncombe County Land Development and Subdivision Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, May 23, 2017
Steep Slope Protection, Stormwater Management, Subdivision Regulations    
State: Not Applicable
The purpose of this chapter of the Buncombe County Land Development and Subdivision Ordinance is to establish procedures and standards for the subdivision of land within the county to facilitate the adequate provision of streets, water, sewage, disposal, and other considerations essential to public health, safety, and general welfare. Section 70-66 sets forth general requirements of subdivision standards to serve this purpose. These include conformity to existing maps or plans, the continuation of adjoining road systems and road names whenever .. Read More

Resource Protection and Open Space
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018
Healthy Communities, Low Impact Development & Green Infrastructure    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Town of Cortlandt Aquifer Protection District
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017
Aquifer Protection, Recreational Uses, Subdivision Approvals    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More


Town of Malta Planning Board & Zoning Board of Appeals Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017
Local Boards, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More


Town of North Stonington Right-to-Farm Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Agriculture, Right-to-Farm    
State: Not Applicable
The town of North Stonington established this right-to-farm ordinance designed to “foster farming as a way of life by declaring this municipality’s support of the farmer’s right to farm.”.. Read More

Ordinance Concerning the Right to Farm in the Town of Woodstock
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Right-to-Farm, Farmland Protection & Preservation    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

Affordable Housing
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Accessory Uses , Affordable Housing , Comprehensive Planning, Healthy Communities    
State: Not Applicable
Town of Barnstable, Massachusetts Chapter 9, Article II, Accessory Apartments and Apartment Units seeks to create additional affordable housing through permitting unpermitted existing accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and encourage the creation of new ADUs. The ordinance also creates a local chapter of the states 40B, “Comprehensive Permit” program which “encourages the development of low- and moderate-income rental and owner-occupied housing and provides a means for the Board of Appeals to remove local barriers to the creation of affordable hous.. Read More

Establishing Land Use Protections for Community Gardens
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018
Healthy Communities, Urban Farming & Community Gardens    
State: Not Applicable
Planning for Healthy Places put together a model zoning code which would be successful through a two-pronged approach: (1) making community gardening an approved use in appropriate use-based zones to prevent them from being closed down as illegal and (2) establishing a separate use-based zone dedicated to the use of community gardens. The model code is well written, and includes additional comments for ways that different municipalities may choose to alter the language to effectuate different types of gardens (allowing chickens, for example). .. Read More
Establishing Land Use Protections for Community Gardens
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018
Healthy Communities, Urban Farming & Community Gardens    
State: Not Applicable
Planning for Healthy Places put together a model zoning code which would be successful through a two-pronged approach: (1) making community gardening an approved use in appropriate use-based zones to prevent them from being closed down as illegal and (2) establishing a separate use-based zone dedicated to the use of community gardens. The model code is well written, and includes additional comments for ways that different municipalities may choose to alter the language to effectuate different types of gardens (allowing chickens, for example). .. Read More

Village of Mamaroneck TOD Zoning Study
Date Added: Thursday, October 29, 2015
Affordable Housing , Overlay District, Transit Oriented Development (TOD), Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More


County of Bay County Density and Intensity Bonus Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Affordable Housing , Density    
State: Not Applicable
The Density and Intensity Bonus Ordinance encourages high quality affordable housing development and redevelopment in Bay County, Florida. This statute sets forth provisions for the calculation of density and intensity bonuses and establishes criteria for affordable housing and details about the application process for affordable housing... Read More



Village of Bronxville Site Design Standards Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 12, 2017
Site Design Standards    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

Town of Goshen Establishment of an Agricultural Land Preservation Fund
Date Added: Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Agriculture    
State: Not Applicable
The town of Goshen established a fund for the purpose of preserving land for agricultural preservation. The fund will be used to purchase agricultural lands and to preserve those lands... Read More

Town of Warwick Land Use Mediation
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Alternative Dispute Resolution    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

District Opportunity to Purchase Act
Date Added: Tuesday, June 7, 2022
Affordable Housing , Displacement    
State: Not Applicable
Washington D.C District Opportunity to Purchase Act (DOPA) maintains the affordable status of existing housing and increases the number of affordable housing in the District. DOPA requires rental property owners to provide the District of Columbia with the opportunity to purchase housing accommodations consisting of five or more rental units if 25 percent or more of those rental units are “affordable”. The District’s right to purchase is subordinate to a tenant’s right to purchase under the Tenant Opportunity to Purchase Act (TOPA)... Read More

City of McCall Subdivision and Development Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Thursday, September 7, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Within its Subdivision and Development Provisions Chapter, the City of McCall in Idaho makes a slight mention of solar heat and light. The City requires that within a subdivision plan, the applicant orient streets in a way to take advantage of the solar heat and light provided by the sun during the winter months. Other this one sub-section, this Chapter makes no other mention of solar energy systems. This could possibly create a barrier to their implementation since property owners would likely not be aware of the benefits or possibilities of i.. Read More

King County Ordinance 16948 and the Determinants of Equity
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Healthy Communities, Equity    
State: Not Applicable
Ordinance 16948 is King County’s Equity and Social Justice ordinance. It supplies definitions related to equity and equitable development. It calls for the development of analytical tools to identify equitable policies. Overall, the ordinance tries to integrate equity principles in all systems of its governance. This ordinance also identifies 14 “determinants of equity.” These determinants were the basis of a separate report called “The Determinants of Equity Report.” This report is part of an initial effort at determining if the county is a.. Read More
Montgomery County, Maryland Racial Equity and Social Justice Impact Statements
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Healthy Communities, Equity    
State: Not Applicable
Bill 44-20 requires the Office of Legislative Oversight to submit a racial equity and social justice impact statement for each zoning text amendment. The bill encourages the Office of Legislative Oversight to work with the planning department to develop the impact statement. Montgomery County already had this requirement in place for bills and this new bill is an extension of that. The county’s Racial Equity and Social Justice (RESJ) statements can be found here. One is also included here. After RESJ statements are completed, the bill is sen.. Read More

Kansas City Subdivision Approvals Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 12, 2017
Subdivision Approvals    
State: Not Applicable
The purpose of this ordinance includes providing adequate light, air, and preventing undue congestion of population through the regulation of subdivision. The Master Planned Community Districts require identification of green spaces and is geared largely at protecting natural spaces and encourage creativity in land use. .. Read More

Chapter 9: Affordable Housing, Article II: Accessory Apartments and Apartment Units
Date Added: Tuesday, August 24, 2021
Accessory Uses , Affordable Housing , Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Seeks to create additional affordable housing through permitting unpermitted existing accessory dwelling units (ADUs) and encourage the creation of new ADUs. The ordinance also creates a local chapter of the states 40B, “Comprehensive Permit” program which “encourages the development of low- and moderate-income rental and owner-occupied housing and provides a means for the Board of Appeals to remove local barriers to the creation of affordable housing units.” Additionally, the ordinance commits certain resources in accordance with the towns Com.. Read More

Town of Geneseo Municipal Code, Chapter 54 Erosion and Sediment Control
Date Added: Tuesday, May 23, 2017
Erosion & Sedimentation Control    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

City of Lincoln Floodplain Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 13, 2016
Floodplain Regulations    
State: Not Applicable
The current ordinances of Lincoln are currently being posted in anticipation of the revised ordinances which are expected to be passed by the summer of 2004. The revised ordinances, which are specifically for new-growth areas, endorse the policy of No Adverse Impact, and the regulations reflect these tenets with provisions that include “no net rise”, “compensatory storage” and “minimum flood corridor”... Read More

City of Lincoln Flood Plain District
Date Added: Wednesday, October 7, 2015
Floodplain Regulations    
State: Not Applicable
The current ordinances of Lincoln are currently being posted in anticipation of the revised ordinances which are expected to be passed by the summer of 2004. The revised ordinances, which are specifically for new-growth areas, endorse the policy of No Adverse Impact, and the regulations reflect these tenets with provisions that include “no net rise”, “compensatory storage” and “minimum flood corridor.”.. Read More

City of Issaquah Landscape & Tree Preservation Regulations - Solar Access; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, January 7, 2018
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
The City of Issaquah’s tree preservation provisions authorizes the approval authority to grant a tree removal permit if removal will provide solar access to buildings incorporating active solar devices, including windows that face south and contain special storage elements to distribute heat energy. City of Issaquah, WA Landscape & Tree Preservation Regulations §§ 18.12.1380(B)(3)(a)(2), 18.12.1385(B)(5), 18.12.141(B)(3). .. Read More

Carrboro, North Carolina Tree Requirements
Date Added: Tuesday, August 31, 2021
Energy Efficiency & Conservation, Healthy Communities, Climate Change Planning    
State: Not Applicable
Town of Carrboro, North Carolina sets requirements for tree retention and protection in parking lots, new developments, and more. There is a tree canopy coverage minimum for every lot or tract for which a zoning, special use, or conditional use permit is issued. Residential developments must meet a minimum of 40% lot coverage. If existing canopy is less than this, additional trees should be planted. Increasing trees acts as “air conditioning for cities” and can help mitigate Urban Heat Island. No pavement can be closer than 15 feet to the trunk.. Read More

County of Kane Stormwater Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 13, 2016
Floodplain Regulations, Stormwater Management    
State: Not Applicable
Kane County implements a number of interesting floodplain regulations including regulating depressional storage, which is often beyond the regulatory floodplain. Furthermore, the County requires compensatory storage for activities within the floodplain and the BFE requirements are for 2 and 3 feet in most areas. The ordinance can be found at: www.co.kane.il.us/.. Read More

Kane County Stormwater Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Floodplain Regulations, Stormwater Management    
State: Not Applicable
Kane County implements a number of interesting floodplain regulations including regulating depressional storage, which is often beyond the regulatory floodplain. Furthermore, the County requires compensatory storage for activities within the floodplain and the BFE requirements are for 2 and 3 feet in most areas. The ordinance can be found at: www.co.kane.il.us/.. Read More

City of Carlsbad Second Dwelling Units Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017
Affordable Housing , Development Standards, Fair Housing, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
The Second Dwelling Units Ordinance allows the construction of second dwelling units by permits, subject to certain requirements, in order to achieve affordable housing goals... Read More

State of North Carolina Wetlands Protection Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017
State Land Use Law, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection    
State: Not Applicable
Cities and counties have a fairly limited role in wetlands protection. The provisions for North Carolina’s Wetlands Restoration Program are found at §§ 143-214.8 to 214.13 within Article 21 of Chapter 143. It is a statewide, non-regulatory program established within and operated by the North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) for the purposes of restoring wetlands and replacing critical wetlands functions. § 143-214.8, § 143-214.9. As part of the program, DENR manages a Wetlands Restoration Fund, through which local.. Read More

City of Portland Green Building Code
Date Added: Saturday, August 27, 2016
Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency    
State: Not Applicable
Under its Green Building Code, the City of Portland, Maine requires all new construction and renovation projects having total construction costs of greater than $250,000 to attain United States Green Building Council’s (USBC) Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification at the Silver level, if the project is either: (1) to be owned or occupied by the City and is of at least 5,000 square feet in floor area; or (2) to be funded in whole or in part by the City and is of at least 10,000 square feet in floor area. Buildings mus.. Read More

Article XVII Adaptive Reuse, §27-199.1 Affordable Housing and Multifamily Housing
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Affordable Housing    
State: Not Applicable
Allows adaptive reuse in the zoning code for multiple family units and affordable housing. Whitehall allows adaptive reuse for affordable housing to be permitted as of right in all residential zoning districts. It is limited to buildings over 5,000 square feet with the existing structure having existed for 50 years before this code was passed. It must have been vacant, partially vacant, or underutilized for a minimum of 3 consecutive years. Affordable units must be 60% AMI or below and rents must remain affordable for 15 years. The code also p.. Read More

Hartford CT Fresh Food Requirement for Stores
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Healthy Communities, Food Deserts, Low Nutrition Uses, Equity    
State: Not Applicable
In Hartford, Connecticut, the zoning code requires twenty percent of the net floor area of any convenience store to sell fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, whole grain cereal, dairy products (excluding ice cream), and canned or dried goods without unhealthy additives. Requiring convenience stores and food trucks to provide more healthy food options helps combat food swamps and deserts. .. Read More

Chicago, IL Density Bonuses for Green Roofs
Date Added: Tuesday, August 31, 2021
Energy Efficiency & Conservation, Healthy Communities, Density    
State: Not Applicable
Green roofs are periodically inspected by the Department of Zoning. The floor area bonus for qualifying green roofs is calculated as follows: Bonus FAR = (area of roof landscaping in excess of 50% of net roof area ÷ lot area) × 0.30 × Base FAR... Read More

National Environmental Policy Act of 1969
Date Added: Monday, April 17, 2017
Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
The National Environmental Policy Act of 1969 seeks to establish that all practicable means and measures be used to promote the general welfare and maintain conditions under which man and nature can exist in productive harmony. Under the Act, Congress seeks cooperation from agencies, and international and national cooperation, in attempting to reach their goals. .. Read More

City of Kingston Mixed Use Overlay District
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017
Affordable Housing , Mixed/Multiple Use, Overlay District    
State: Not Applicable
This law creates the Mixed Use Overlay District, which is intended to provide affordable multifamily housing to low income families. .. Read More

Town of New Hartford, New York Code § 118- 74 – Solar Energy Systems
Date Added: Wednesday, June 6, 2018
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

New York State Town Law: § 261-b. Incentive Zoning
Date Added: Sunday, August 28, 2016
Incentive Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

New York State Town Law – Incentive Zoning Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017
State Land Use Law    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

PlanOKC Health Impact Assessment
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Healthy Communities, Health Impact Assessments    
State: Not Applicable
In Oklahoma City, Oklahoma they adopted a new comprehensive plan that was modeled after the findings of a Health Impact Assessment. They made three models of possible future growth plans for the city and identified 35 indicators that may change depending on the type of growth. When the city expands, they are prepared with strategies to implement to mitigate the community health effects of future developments. Oklahoma City created more opportunities for walking and biking, increased access to healthy produce, and improved the water quality afte.. Read More

City of Arnold Floodplain Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, January 27, 2016
Floodplain Regulations    
State: Not Applicable
Arnold has very specific and stringent regulations for all construction in the Meramec and Mississippi River floodplains below 420 feet above sea level which range from permit requirements to enforcement provisions. In addition, the lowest floor of all floodplain construction must be elevated to at least three feet above the base flood elevation and in the floodways encroachments shall not result in any increase in flood levels during occurrence of the base flood discharge. Although not part of the ordinances, Arnold has a very aggressive buyou.. Read More

Model Ordinance for Solar Photovoltaic Systems
Date Added: Thursday, March 29, 2018
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

City of Greensboro Soil Erosion and Sedimentation Control Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Erosion & Sedimentation Control    
State: Not Applicable
The purpose of this ordinance is to “regulate certain land-disturbing activity to control accelerated erosion and sedimentation to prevent the pollution of water and other damage to lakes, watercourses, and other public and private property by sedimentation”. Permits for land disturbing activity are required for properties that meet certain conditions. Generally, a soil erosion and sedimentation control plan is required and must contain the control objectives including identifying critical areas, limiting time of exposure, limiting exposed ar.. Read More

Vermont Employment Growth Incentive
Date Added: Monday, September 26, 2016
Development Standards    
State: Not Applicable
The Vermont Employment Growth Incentive (VEGI) was created to encourage job creation in Vermont by a Vermont company, a Vermont division of a company that plans to grow and expand in Vermont, a company considering locating a new business or division in state, or Vermont start-up business activity. The VEGI program provides incentives from the State of Vermont to businesses to encourage prospective economic activity in Vermont that is beyond an applicant’s “organic” or background growth and that would not occur except for the incentive provided... Read More

Town of Brookhaven Water Resources Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 28, 2017
Aquifer Protection, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

City of Louisville Waterfront Overlay District Design Standards
Date Added: Tuesday, April 18, 2017
Overlay District    
State: Not Applicable
The waterfront overlay district design standards were created to control development activity within the community along the waterfront due the importance of its appearance. Some of the design standards include considerations of functionality, continuity, and pedestrian activity, among other things as criteria which are evaluated before new development occurs. These standards are evaluated by the Waterfront Development Corporation... Read More

City of Manson City Solar Access Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Thursday, September 7, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Within its City Code, Manson City has incorporated an entire chapter on access to solar energy. A major section within that chapter is one that outlines the requirements and process for obtaining solar access easements. The solar access regulatory board may grant these easements, subject to a number of requirements. One of those requirements includes filing a detailed application with the secretary of the planning and zoning commission, which includes a description of the solar collector to be used, a legal description of the solar access easem.. Read More

Skagway Comprehensive Plan 2030
Date Added: Tuesday, August 24, 2021
Affordable Housing , Zoning, Density    
State: Not Applicable
Skagway, Alaska has included multiple affordable housing goals in its 2030 Comprehensive Plan. A town of just over 1,000, Skagway is encouraging residential development to accommodate anticipated population growth. The town owns 8,850 acres of land in its borders and has created a residential land disposal program to sell publicly owned land for residential development. Target residential development categories include senior housing, affordable housing, housing for full time workers and residents, and housing for those earning 120% AMI .. Read More

Town of Babylon Green Building Certification Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, August 27, 2016
Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More



Town of Brookhaven Moratorium on Telecommunications Facilities
Date Added: Friday, April 28, 2017
Communications, Comprehensive Planning, Moratoria, Smart Growth    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

County of Collier Coastal Zone Management Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Coastal Protection, Environmental Impact Review Requirements, Sea Level Rise Adaptation    
State: Not Applicable
In order to protect, conserve, and appropriately use its coastal areas, the Collier County Coastal Zone Management ordinance requires planning consistence, site development prioritization, and impact planning that considers potential impacts of sea level rise. The law requires that all new and existing development in the coastal zone furthers the goals, objectives and policies of the Growth Management Plan’s Conservation and Coastal Management Element, preserving native vegetation and limiting development densities for sites within undeveloped.. Read More

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, 2017
Steep Slope Protection, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Town of Gardiner Notification Requirements for Applications Relating to Certain Land Use Approvals Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Site Plan Approval    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

New York State Town Law – Board of Appeals Procedure Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017
Local Boards, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

City of Arnold Floodplain Management Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 27, 2016
Floodplain Regulations    
State: Not Applicable
Arnold has very specific and stringent regulations for all construction in the Meramec and Mississippi River floodplains below 420 feet above sea level which range from permit requirements to enforcement provisions. In addition, the lowest floor of all floodplain construction must be elevated to at least three feet above the base flood elevation and in the floodways encroachments shall not result in any increase in flood levels during occurrence of the base flood discharge. Although not part of the ordinances, Arnold has a very aggressive buyou.. Read More

City of Bloomington High Intensity Mixed Use with Residential District Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 6, 2017
Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency, Mixed/Multiple Use, Transit Oriented Development (TOD), Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
The Bloomington City Code provides for an “HX-R” zoning district (high intensity mixed use with residential) that aims to reduce vehicle trips and vehicle miles traveled by maximizing high-intensity development in close proximity to transit. The ordinance prohibits drive-through and other car-oriented uses. It provides a minimum density of 30 dwelling units per acre of gross site area for residential development in order to promote a critical mass of dwelling units in an area that can support neighborhood-oriented retail and service uses (the.. Read More

City of Jamestown Freshwater Wetlands Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017
Land Use Planning, Site Plan Approval, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

City of Mansfield Natural Resources Management Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017
Landscaping, Tree Preservation & Protection, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance establishes criteria and regulations for the preservation of trees within the City. The purpose of this ordinance is to promote site planning which furthers the preservation of mature trees and natural areas, to protect trees during construction; to facilitate site design and construction, which contribute to the long term viability of existing trees. This ordinance also requires that persons must obtain a tree removal permit before cutting down, destroying, or removing any protected tree as defined by the ordinance. .. Read More

City of Minneapolis Erosion and Sediment Control Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016
Erosion & Sedimentation Control    
State: Not Applicable
The purpose this ordinance is to “control or eliminate soil erosion and sedimentation within the City of Minneapolis.” It applies to all land disturbances and soil storage activities. This ordinance refers permitees to a Manual of Standards that describes acceptable Best Management Practices (BMPs) for use in controlling sedimentation and erosion. It also sets a schedule for mandatory inspections by the issuing authority... Read More

State of New Jersey Riparian Buffer Conservation Zone Model Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 12, 2017
Buffer Zones, Local Environmental Law, Water Resource Protection    
State: Not Applicable
This model ordinance provides a template for New Jersey municipalities wishing to implement a riparian buffer conservation zone to protect water resources and control flooding. The riparian buffer conservation zones are divided into three categories based on the natural characteristics of the water course, and each offering varying levels of protection. An overlay to the existing zoning districts is created; the provisions apply to any activity requiring a building permit, zoning variance, special exception, conditional use, or subdivision/la.. Read More

County of Riverside Construction, Reconstruction, Abandonment and Destruction of Wells
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Aquifer Protection    
State: Not Applicable
Riverside County established an ordinance regulating the Construction, Reconstruction, Abandonment and Destruction of Wells in order to “(a) protect underground water resources, and (b) provide safe water to persons within Riverside County.” Applications for permits must include a variety of information on the physical characteristics property, the well specifications, and additional property features, which include other wells, underground storage tanks, and waste disposal sites. .. Read More

SeaTac, WA ADU
Date Added: Tuesday, August 31, 2021
Accessory Uses , Affordable Housing , Healthy Communities    
State: Not Applicable
Requires the primary residence or ADU to be occupied by the owner in order to build and rent out an ADU. The city allows for ADUs in order to maximize the use of existing housing stock, improve cost efficiency of existing infrastructure, increase opportunities for homeowners, and provide housing options for a wide range of income and status. Most ADUs are required to meet a maximum of 800 square feet while preexisting ADUs may have up to 45% of the square footage of the primary residence. The code also sets maximum occupancy, height, desig.. Read More


Washington State Growth Management Act
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Comprehensive Planning    
State: Not Applicable
Under the Growth Management Act, cities and counties that meet designated population thresholds are required to adopt comprehensive plans. The Act establishes mandatory elements of comprehensive plans: land use; housing; capital facilities; utilities; rural; transportation; economic development; and park and recreation. .. Read More

Town of Blooming Grove Golf & Country Club Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, March 23, 2017
Accessory Uses , Environmental Compliance, Pesticide Management, Transportation & Land Use Planning, Zoning, Drinking Water Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

Neighborhood Jobs Trust
Date Added: Thursday, June 2, 2022
Impact Fees, Displacement    
State: Not Applicable
Boston, MA requires that commercial developers for projects greater than 100,000 square feet receive a zoning variance, on the condition that the developer of the building pay a linkage fee, based on square footage, to the Neighborhood Jobs Trust. The Trust provides continued and future employment opportunities for Boston’s low or moderate income residents. The Trust supports such services as job training and retraining, employment counseling and job placement services, adult literacy and alternative education programs, and related support.. Read More

County of Cherokee Conservation Subdivision Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, February 10, 2016
Conservation Districts & Subdivisions    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance provides density neutral cluster development for greater flexibility of design and environmental protections. Three main features of the ordinance are: 1) it is density neutral and encourages preservation; 2) it calls out rare plants and animals as having a right to protection through zoning; and 3) it has broad authority to protect “wetlands, aquifers, topographical or soil features, marine and wildlife habitat; and other features having conservation values, including views, vistas, and indigenous vegetation.”.. Read More

City of El Paso Sustainable Development Design Standards & Green Building Grant Program Guidelines
Date Added: Saturday, August 27, 2016
Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency    
State: Not Applicable
Under the El Paso, Texas sustainable development design standards, the City mandates that all city buildings meet green development standards and provides significant monetary incentives for private developers to do the same. El Paso has over 600,000 residents, and the climate is arid and warm with limited precipitation. The City recently started a sustainability campaign culminating in the “Green Summit 2009,” which presented the sustainable development design standards. El Paso mandates that all new city owned buildings over 5,000 sq. feet.. Read More

State of New York Transfer of Development Rights Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017
Purchase of Development Rights, Scenic Resources, Transfer of Development Rights (TDR), Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Farmland Protection & Preservation    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

New York State Town – Transfer of Development Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017
Comprehensive Planning, Historic Preservation, Open Space Preservation, Scenic Resources, State Land Use Law, Transfer of Development Rights (TDR), Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More



Town of Chapel Hill Energy Conservation in Design and Construction of New and Renovated Town Buildings
Date Added: Wednesday, February 10, 2016
Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency    
State: Not Applicable
Chapel Hill, North Carolina passed an “Energy Conservation in Design and Construction of New and Renovated Town Buildings” ordinance to require the greening of public buildings. The ordinance makes it mandatory for new municipal buildings and additions greater than 5,000 square feet to achieve “Silver” level LEED certification. The ordinance also gives the Town Council authority to require buildings and additions smaller than 5,000 square feet to achieve LEED silver certification. The ordinance does not apply to retrofits or renovations of t.. Read More

The Town of Coxsackie Waterfront Residential District Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, May 23, 2017
Coastal Protection, Land Use Planning, Planned Development Districts    
State: Not Applicable
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 .. Read More

New York State Town Law: § 272-a. Town Comprehensive Plan
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016
   
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

Town of Warren Wind Energy Facilities Law
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Wind Energy    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

Town of Newtown Zoning Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017
Agriculture, Zoning, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Farmland Protection & Preservation    
State: Not Applicable
The town of Newtown created a conservation and agriculture zone, which, in part, is focused on the retention of agriculture as a beneficial industry within the town. No land or structure within the zone may be altered except for the purposes of natural resource conservation or farming... Read More

City of College Place Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Within its Code of Ordinances, College Place, Washington has not integrated a separate section on Solar Access, but has defined it to mean “direct sunlight for the purpose of successfully operating a solar energy system.” The Zoning Ordinance outlines certain requirements for a planned unit development and allows for the maximum number of dwelling units permitted to be increased by 15 percent and an additional five percent for developments which incorporate street and lot orientation to maximize solar access; tree plantings selected to avoid wi.. Read More

Township of Bernards Tree Removal & Protection Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017
Local Environmental Law, Tree Preservation & Protection, Timber Harvesting    
State: Not Applicable
This tree preservation ordinance contains requirements for the number of trees that must replace a tree removed by developers, based on the size of the removed tree. Because it is not always physically possible to fit the required number of trees onto a parcel, a controversial amendment was added that requires a developer to pay $300 per required tree that cannot be planted. The money is donated to the Shade Tree Commission so that trees can be planted in other parts of town. .. Read More

Town of Eagle Wind Energy Conversion Facilities Siting Law
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Wind Energy    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

New York State Site Plan Review Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Site Plan Approval    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

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, 2016
Comprehensive Planning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More


County of Washington Environmental Protection, Erosion Prevention, and Sediment Control Rules
Date Added: Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Stormwater Management, Watershed Protection, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
The Clean Water Services of Washington County is a public utility who utilize this Resolution to protect the water resources of the Tualatin River Watershed. This comprehensive standard has design specifications for construction, stormwater, erosion control, etc. It has a no visibility requirement for erosion off-site. All erosion and sediment control requirements apply to all activities and uses within the CWS service area, not just construction and development. Permitted activities require an ESC plan that is utilized during all phases of con.. Read More

City of Apple Valley Natural Resources Management Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, April 17, 2017
Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
This broad natural resource management ordinance attempts to “protect, preserve, and enhance the natural resources and environment.” It forces the collection of data on the parcel in question and mandates low impact and best practices which preserve water quality, wetlands, trees, an reduce soil erosion among other issues... Read More

Town of Brookhaven Great South Beach Zoning Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, April 18, 2017
Coastal Protection, Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
This law was created to protect the Great South Beach in Fire Island National Seashore from ecological damage due to overdevelopment. The law does so by placing regulations on construction within the three districts that the island has been separated in to, which are: Residential, Oceanfront, and Commercial. .. Read More

County of Fairfax Erosion and Sedimentation Control Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Erosion & Sedimentation Control    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance not only requires that land disturbing activity meets Virginia best management practice guidelines, but lists several more stringent controls. For instance, the use of brush or rebar-enforced straw bale barriers is not allowed. Additionally, this ordinance lists a number of fees which must be paid prior to the issuance of any land disturbing permits including: soil report fees, drainage study fees, and water quality fees... Read More

Town of Kennett Open Space Design Options Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, May 9, 2017
Open Space Preservation, Ridgeline Protection    
State: Not Applicable
This law is a lengthy and detailed open space ordinance that contains a component emphasizing protection of steep slopes and ridgelines... Read More

New York City's Racial Equity Reports Int. No. 1572-B
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Healthy Communities, Equity    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More
Phoenix's Transit Oriented Development Strategic Policy Framework
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Transportation & Land Use Planning, Healthy Communities, Complete Streets, Equity    
State: Not Applicable
This document describes the opportunity for transit-oriented development (TOD) for Phoenix. Specifically, it calls for a by-right zoning codes to create shorter and more predictable construction timelines. Form-based standards are promoted. Specifically, the document suggests increasing the permitted height of buildings within a quarter-mile radius of light rail stations and creating a minimum of 30 percent of housing units dedicated to long-term affordability in TOD zones. The update to this document also includes a portion on equity... Read More

New York State Coastal Erosion Hazard Areas Act
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017
Coastal Protection, Development Standards, Erosion & Sedimentation Control, State Land Use Law, Wildlife & Fish Habitat, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More
State of New York Coastal Erosion Hazard Areas Act
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017
Coastal Protection, Erosion & Sedimentation Control    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

County of Westchester Model Conservation Easement
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Open Space Preservation    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More


Appropriate Parking Management Strategy for Successful Transit Oriented Development
Date Added: Monday, July 20, 2015
Transit Oriented Development (TOD), Parking    
State: Not Applicable
A major challenge to successfully implementing Transit Oriented Development (TOD) is parking, specifically minimum parking requirements which produce an oversupply of parking that undermines the intended benefits of TOD. This Master’s thesis addresses the effects of parking on TOD’s success, the defects of conventional parking requirements, and specific strategies for TOD parking management, as well as providing a case study of parking in King County, Washington. Additionally, recommendations are given to assist communities in implementing park.. Read More

Iowa City Sensitive Areas Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Comprehensive Planning, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
The Sensitive Areas Ordinance (14-6K-1) was created to implement the environmental policies of the city’s comprehensive plan. It defines the reasonable use of properties which contain environmentally sensitive features. Sensitive features include wetlands, fully hydric soils, prairies remnants one acre or larger, stream corridors, archeological sites, steep slopes (18-24%), critical slopes (25-39%), protected slopes (40%+), and woodlands greater than or equal to 2 acres... Read More


Town of Blooming Grove Landscaping & Environmental Requirements; Performance Standards Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 5, 2017
Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Landscaping, Local Environmental Law, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

Village of Bronxville Site Plan & Subdivision Approval Standards
Date Added: Tuesday, April 18, 2017
Site Design Standards, Stormwater Management, Subdivision Approvals, Watershed Protection, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Village of Bronxville Controlled Development District Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, February 3, 2016
Site Plan Approval, Subdivision Regulations, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

City of Brookfield Well Head Protection Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, April 18, 2017
Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection    
State: Not Applicable
This law is designed to provide protection to the City of Brookfield’s water supply. The law includes standards and regulations, relating to well head protection, which apply to businesses and residents of the City. These standards proscribe distances which must separate the City’s well heads from certain types of businesses and certain land uses. The law also has placed a ban on some activities which present a possible danger to the City’s water supply, and discusses the penalties which would accompany the violation of these regulations. .. Read More

Town of Brookhaven Critical Environmental Areas and SEQRA Implementation
Date Added: Wednesday, February 10, 2016
Environmental Impact Review Requirements, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
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). .. Read More

District of Columbia Quick Acquisition of Abandoned & Nuisance Property
Date Added: Saturday, April 15, 2017
Vacant & Distressed Properties    
State: Not Applicable
The District of Columbia enacted the Quick Acquisition of Abandoned and Nuisance Property Act. This act provides the Mayor authority to file petition in the Superior Court of the District of Columbia to alleviate nuisance and blight conditions on abandoned properties. The petition may seek to condemn, take possession, or take title to abandoned properties. Upon filing petition, the Mayor must deposit with the court, fair market value of the abandoned property and file notice of the petition with the recorder of deeds. If the fair market val.. Read More

Massachusetts Affordable Housing Appeals Law
Date Added: Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Affordable Housing    
State: Not Applicable
The legislature of the Commonwealth, in Chapter 23B of the Massachusetts Code, has created the Massachusetts Department of Housing and Community Development. Within the Department of Housing and Community Development, the legislature created a Housing Appeals Committee. Mass. Gen. Law Ch. § 5A (2004). Under the Commonwealth’s Low and Moderate Income Housing Law, certainties entities who wish to build affordable house may follow a streamlined application process. If the application is denied or conditionally granted, the entity may appeal.. Read More

Town of Mamaroneck Waterfront Revitalization Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017
Waterfront Revitalization    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

Oklahoma City Cluster Housing Regulations
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016
Clustering & Cluster Development    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance is a subsection zoning ordinance regulating Planned Unit Development. Cluster zoning allows for a higher density of housing units to be developed in a given area to protect more contiguous open space in another section of the development. The overall density of housing units cannot exceed the limits for the zoning class the development sits in. .. Read More

County of Clark Stormwater and Erosion Control Regulations
Date Added: Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Stormwater Management    
State: Not Applicable
This chapter combines the county's stormwater and erosion control regulations are combined into one chapter, and apply to development or redevelopment activities that include adding 5,000 SF or more impervious surface in rural areas and 2,000 SF or more in urban areas. Stormwater requirements include off-site analysis of impacts _ mile downstream and conveyance standards. Erosion control requirements include variable requirements for small parcel and large parcel developments, signage at points of entry for subdivisions or short plats, and form.. Read More

Energize CT Solar PV Model Zoning Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, June 20, 2018
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Energize CT developed a model solar PV zoning ordinance to aid municipalities in developing their own solar PV zoning ordinance. The model provides example height restrictions for various types of solar collector units. It states that ground-mounted solar PV systems are permitted as an accessory use in all zoning districts upon issuance of the proper permit and that they must not exceed thirty-five inches in height. Roof-mounted solar PV systems (permitted as an accessory use in all zoning districts upon issuance of the proper permit) shall be .. Read More

North Carolina Planned Unit Development Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, April 6, 2017
Planned Unit Development    
State: Not Applicable
Although there is no independent statute granting cities the authority to allow PUDs, Section 160A-385.1, dealing with vesting rights, specifically names PUDs as one of the types of developments for which a developer may submit a site-specific plan and, upon the city’s approval, gain a vested right. Thus, it can be implied from this statute that cities do have authority to permit PUDs. (See Vested Rights, below.).. Read More

Cambridge, MA Affordable Housing Overlay District
Date Added: Thursday, August 3, 2023
Overlay District, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
To qualify for the Affordable Housing Overlay zone, there must be 100% affordable units on site. For rental units, at least 80% of the units shall be initially occupied by households with gross annual income under 80% of AMI. Remainder of units shall be initially occupied by households under 100% of AMI. Rent, utilities, and fees should not exceed 30% of gross household income. For-purchase units, at least 50% of units should be sold to households with gross income under 80% of AMI. Remainder of units should be sold to households with income un.. Read More

Town of Penfield Environmental Protection Overlay District
Date Added: Thursday, May 4, 2017
Floodplain Regulations, Local Environmental Law, Overlay District    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

Bicycle Parking Regulation to Promote Biking
Date Added: Thursday, April 12, 2018
Healthy Communities, Bicycle Infrastructure    
State: Not Applicable
Article 6.100 of Cambridge, Massachusetts’s Zoning Ordinance was designed to expand bicycle parking requirements to promote bicycle use within the city. Bicycle transportation provides economic, environmental, and human health benefits by promoting a smaller carbon footprint, a more diverse consumer market, cardiovascular exercise, and reduced street congestion. Article 6 of the Zoning Ordinance includes a table of metrics which designates the number of bicycle parking spaces that must be available in correlation with the type of structure (.. Read More

Building Healthy Places Tool Kit: Strategies for Enhancing Health in the Business Environment
Date Added: Tuesday, July 10, 2018
Land Use Planning, Healthy Communities, Architectural Design Control    
State: Not Applicable
The Building Healthy Places Tool Kit focuses on community opportunities to promote health and prevent its members from chronic diseases. This toolkit is meant to serve as a resource for shapers of buildings and projects interested in making “specific evidence supported design” to create a healthier environment. The report lists twenty-one recommendations for promoting “gold star” health organized into three separate categories; “physical activity, healthy food and drinking water, and healthy environment and social well-being”. These strategies .. Read More
Building Healthy Communities: Residents Live in Communities With Health-Promoting Land use, Transportation, and Community Development
Date Added: Thursday, July 12, 2018
Comprehensive Planning, Healthy Communities, Complete Streets, Urban Farming & Community Gardens    
State: Not Applicable
The purpose of this guide is to provide strategies to help local planners improve health in their communities through land use design, transportation and community development. The document is broken down into twelve different categories of promising strategies used by local governments to improve overall public health. The it discusses how communities can measure progress after implementing these policies. This document focuses on centering the built environment around a walkable/bikeable community with complete streets policies, safe routes f.. Read More

County of Brown Agricultural Shoreland Management Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, February 10, 2016
Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Agriculture    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance is unique because it applies specifically to agricultural use. Brown County’s Agricultural Shoreland Management ordinance is designed to “prevent soil erosion and minimize the movement of suspended solids into surface water.” It establishes a 300 foot zone on all perennial and intermittent streams and rivers wherein agricultural practices must meet NRCS guidelines. Additionally, 20-foot-vegetative buffers planted with approved seed mixtures must be established along all state waters... Read More

Township of Howell Riparian Buffers – Standards of Performance Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017
Buffer Zones, Development Standards, Environmental Compliance, Wildlife & Fish Habitat, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance sets forth the practices and procedures to be followed by developers and others in order to maintain the integrity of riparian habitat. This law creates a buffer zone in which private activity, such as tree cutting, disturbing soil, use of fertilizer, and use of pesticides are severely regulated. The town board holds discretion in allowing a buffer zone to be disturbed. If a buffer zone is disturbed, the developer is required to rehabilitate the buffer zone in accordance with the accepted practices set forth in this law. .. Read More

Article XVI.II. ADAPTIVE REUSE
Date Added: Tuesday, August 24, 2021
Affordable Housing , Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Santa Ana Municipal Code §41-1650 through 1657 allows for the adaptive reuse of nonresidential buildings into dwelling units, guest rooms or joint living and work quarters within 4 designated “project incentive zones” if the building either “was constructed in accordance with building and zoning codes in effect prior to July 1, 1974” or “has been determined to be a historically significant building.” The code also establishes development standards; allows for residential use in the project incentive zones regardless of underlying zoning;.. Read More

National Healthy Housing Standard
Date Added: Wednesday, July 18, 2018
Affordable Housing , Healthy Communities    
State: Not Applicable
Affordability, location, and quality of housing have all been independently linked to health. The National Center for Healthy Housing (NCHH) and the American Public Health Association (APHA) have created an evidenced based National Healthy Housing Standard as a tool to reconnect the housing and public sectors, and as an evidence based-standard of care for those in the position of improving housing conditions. The Standard developed by these two groups provides health-based provisions to fill gaps where no property maintenance policy exists and .. Read More

Township of Caln Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
The Township of Caln in Pennsylvania has integrated two sections in its zoning code on solar energy production facilities, Section 155-98, and solar photovoltaic systems, Section 155-126. In Section 155-98, solar energy production facilities are permitted by conditional use in the Institutional Zoning District and include design standards and specifications such as a minimum net lot area, a maximum height, and the overall facility design. Section 155-126 aims to promote the safe, effective, and efficient use of solar energy systems. The section.. Read More

City of Ann Arbor Land Development Regulations
Date Added: Wednesday, January 27, 2016
Development Standards, Local Environmental Law, Planned Unit Development, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
The goal of this ordinance is to specify procedures of and materials for proposed development projects. It also provides guidelines to identify, evaluate, protect, and mitigate six types of sensitive environmental areas... Read More
City of Ann Arbor Land Development Regulations
Date Added: Monday, November 14, 2016
Development Standards, Local Environmental Law, Planned Unit Development, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
The goal of this ordinance is to specify procedures of and materials for proposed development projects. It also provides guidelines to identify, evaluate, protect, and mitigate six types of sensitive environmental areas... Read More

Town of Avon Ridgeline Protection Overlay Zone
Date Added: Tuesday, May 9, 2017
Overlay District, Ridgeline Protection    
State: Not Applicable
This overlay district was adopted to protect ridgelines for the conservation of environmental attributes including ground water quality, ground water recharge and wildlife habitat, and in order to prevent erosion. It provides for a setback area from the ridgeline as specified by a qualified professional. The setback area is designated on a map prepared by the Commission... Read More

Town of Eden Wind Energy Conversion Systems Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Wind Energy    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

State of Illinois Stormwater Management – County Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017
State Land Use Law, Stormwater Management    
State: Not Applicable
In addition to general powers granted to all counties to regulate “storm water runoff,” 55 ILL. COMP. STAT. 5/5-1062 (2004) allocates comprehensive stormwater planning and management to corporate county authorities in the urbanized region served by the Northeastern Illinois Planning Commission, pursuant to enumerated population standards. Prior to the adoption of countywide plans and regulations, a county board must establish a “stormwater management planning committee.” The committee is charged to coordinate surveying and planning activities.. Read More

City of Jersey City Green Building Initiative for Municipal Projects & Green Building Incentives
Date Added: Saturday, August 27, 2016
Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency    
State: Not Applicable
Jersey City, New Jersey, is part of the New York metropolitan area and lies on the west bank of the Hudson River across from Lower Manhattan, where about 26% of its employed residents work. Jersey City has a population of 242,389 with a density of roughly 16,045.5 people per square mile across a total area of 21.1 square miles (14.9 comprised of land and 6.2 of water). Jersey City is a port city, commercial and industrial center, and transportation terminus, although parts of the city remain under-utilized after years of commercial inactivity.. Read More


Town of Laytonsville Forest Conservation & Reforestation Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, May 6, 2017
Forest Management, Tree Preservation & Protection, Timber Harvesting, Wildlife & Fish Habitat, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
The Forest Conservation and Reforestation Ordinance establishes a forest conservation and reforestation program for the Town of Laytonsville in compliance with the standards prescribed by the Maryland General Assembly. The Act regulates timber harvesting as well as other activities that may result in the cutting, clearing, or grading of forest and defines terms related to and including “afforestation”, “forest”, and “reforestation”. Finally, the ordinance prescribes penalties for noncompliance... Read More

Massachusetts Brownfields Revitalization Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Brownfields    
State: Not Applicable
Brownfield redevelopment in Massachusetts is regulated and overseen by the state under chapter twenty-one E, the “Massachusetts Oil and Hazardous Material Release Prevention Act.” Section (b)(3) of this chapter requires the state to provide technical assistance to municipalities, redevelopment authorities, redevelopment agencies, community development corporations, economic development and industrial corporations, and other persons interested in redeveloping brownfields. State brownfields program incentives are available to buyers, and sometim.. Read More

City of Decorah Conservation & Open Space (COS) Regulations
Date Added: Thursday, March 16, 2017
Open Space Preservation, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance was created to protect mature and young woodlands and prevent the ecological degradation of heavily wooded areas, as well as protect drainageways, wetlands, and soil erosion and sedimentation control... Read More

City of Decorah Conservation & Open Space Regulations
Date Added: Sunday, April 16, 2017
Open Space Preservation, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance was created to protect mature and young woodlands and prevent the ecological degradation of heavily wooded areas, as well as protect drainageways, wetlands, and soil erosion and sedimentation control... Read More

City of Eugene Ordinance Concerning Erosion Prevention and Construction Site Management Practices
Date Added: Wednesday, February 24, 2016
Erosion & Sedimentation Control    
State: Not Applicable
In 1994 Eugene became the first city of its size in the nation to be issued a municipal NPDES stormwater permit. To protect local waterways from construction-related activities, the City implemented the Erosion Prevention and Construction Site Management program in 1997. This program relies upon an "outcome-based" approach allowing contractors to choose the erosion prevention and construction site management practices best suited for a site. Eugene must approve erosion permits before any other construction permits are issued. Applicants must.. Read More

State of North Carolina Floodplain Protection Ordinances
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017
Flood Prevention, Floodplain Regulations, State Land Use Law    
State: Not Applicable
Provisions regarding the authority of local governments to regulate use in floodplains are found in Part 6, Article 21, of Chapter 143. Under § 143-215.54, local governments are authorized to adopt ordinances to regulate uses in flood hazard areas and to grant permits for use in such areas. Flood hazard areas are defined at § 143-252(1d) as areas that local government has determined that development must be regulated in order to prevent flood damage. Base floodplains, defined at § 143-252(1b) as areas subject to a 1% or greater chance of floodi.. Read More

State of New York Series I: Basic Tools and Techniques Issue Number 3 Local Boards and Practices
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016
Land Use Planning, Local Boards    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More


Better Housing By Design
Date Added: Thursday, August 12, 2021
Affordable Housing , Transfer of Development Rights (TDR), Zoning, Density    
State: Not Applicable
Portland, Oregon created a report titled “Better Housing By Design” to create plans to promote affordable and diverse housing. The report is a compilation of Portland’s recent zoning code amendments. Portland implemented code changes to address housing affordability and diversity, expand outdoor spaces and green design, building design and scale requirements, and more. Housing affordability and density changes were implemented in multi-family residential zones outside of the city core in order to expand options, diversity, and walkability. The .. Read More

Double Curbs for Complete Streets
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018
Healthy Communities, Complete Streets    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More
Replacing Paving with Trees
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018
Healthy Communities, Low Impact Development & Green Infrastructure    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

City of Albuquerque Solar Permit Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Energy Efficiency & Conservation, Solar Energy    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance was created to clarify the rights people have in terms of using solar power. Specifically, there are limits to the creation of solar power rights, as well as a permitting and recording requirements... Read More

Township of Casco Zoning Ordinance §§ 13.26-13.28; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Saturday, January 6, 2018
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Casco Township passed Ordinance #30-83 to add provisions addressing small, medium, and large solar energy systems in its zoning ordinance. The ordinance defines small solar energy systems as single residential or small business-scale solar energy conversion systems consisting of roof panels, ground-mounted solar arrays, or other solar energy fixtures, and associated control or conversion electronics, occupying no more than one-half acre of land and that produce utility power primarily to onsite users or customers. Medium solar energy systems ar.. Read More

Economic Development and Redevelopment: A Toolkit on Land Use and Health
Date Added: Tuesday, July 10, 2018
Economic Development, Healthy Communities    
State: Not Applicable
The Economic Development and Redevelopment Toolkit was designed to improve low-income community access to food by providing a fundamental understanding of economic development and redevelopment and how these tools can provide opportunities to increase food retailing in the community. These economic development strategies breakdown the type of economic revitalization based on business attractions, physical redevelopment and the community members. The toolkit discusses the advantages and challenges of specific food systems, including, supermarke.. Read More

Town of West Warwick Development Fee Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 12, 2017
Real Estate Transaction Fee    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

Town of Brookhaven Wetlands & Waterways Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017
Development Standards, Site Design Standards, Site Plan Approval, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

City of Beacon, New York Code-Chapter 223: Solar Collectors and Installations
Date Added: Monday, June 18, 2018
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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 .. Read More

Village of Croton-on-Hudson Telecommunications Towers Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017
Communications, Site Design Standards    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Village of Croton-on-Hudson Local Waterfront Revitalization Program Consistency Review
Date Added: Wednesday, February 10, 2016
Coastal Protection, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Local Waterfront Revitalization Program Consistency Review
Date Added: Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Coastal Protection, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Town of Farmington Ridgeline Protection Zone
Date Added: Tuesday, May 9, 2017
Ridgeline Protection, Scenic Resources    
State: Not Applicable
This law provides a very detailed set of regulations with the primary purpose of protecting the viewshed and natural beauty of the town. It uses specific geologic features that form the mountains to determine the boundaries of the protection zone... Read More

Town of Irondequoit Historic Preservation Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017
Historic Preservation, Local Boards, Landmarks & Historical Districts    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Planned Unit Developments
Date Added: Tuesday, August 24, 2021
Affordable Housing , Mixed/Multiple Use    
State: Not Applicable
North Brunswick, New Jersey has a chapter in its zoning code dedicated to Planned Unit Developments (PUD). The code sets a 50-acre minimum size to establish a PUD, and this may be met through one parcel or multiple together. It also requires at least one road connecting to the PUD. In North Brunswick, PUD may be used for single- and multi-family housing, retail totaling no more than 50% of the PUD, office space, educational and recreational facilities, public utilities, and conditional use of religious space. Fifty-three dwelling units a.. Read More


City of Rahway Mixed-Use Zone
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Pedestrian Oriented Design (POD), Transit Oriented Development (TOD)    
State: Not Applicable
The City Code of Rahway, New Jersey provides for an “M-X” zoning district (mixed use zone) that aims to create a high-density area near the Rahway Train Station (which underwent a $16 million renovation, including a public plaza in front of the station) by providing for multiple uses and pedestrian linkages to the waterfront and downtown areas. The renovation of the train station has led to an increased effort in downtown revitalization, with new residences, restaurants, and art galleries being constructed in the downtown area. The M-X ordin.. Read More

Borough of Kenhorst Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Within its Zoning Chapter, the Borough of Kenhorst has incorporated a section specifically on Solar Energy Systems, § 540. According to § 540, “the use of solar energy systems, including solar collectors, storage facilities, distribution components, heating and cooling facilities, is a permitted use in all zoning districts.” The Township requires that all developments and structures be oriented in a way to maximize the use of passive and active solar energy. The section lists a few regulations for solar energy systems including required yard se.. Read More

New York State Statutes that Provide for the Protection of Agricultural Lands
Date Added: Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Agriculture, Farmland Protection & Preservation    
State: Not Applicable
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 .. Read More

Township of Bethlehem Land Use Regulations § 102-37.3; Solar Energy Facilities; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Monday, December 18, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
The Township of Bethlehem’s solar energy facilities regulation requires minor site plan approval for ground-mounted solar energy facilities between 2,000 square feet and 10 acres in size while requiring preliminary and final site plan approval for systems greater than 10 acres in size. The planning board or an appointed site plan subcommittee may waive the minor site plan approval requirement if the proposed facility is reasonable and adheres to the solar regulation’s general purpose and intent. In addition to Bethlehem’s standard site plan req.. Read More


City of Overland Park Erosion and Sediment Control Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016
Erosion & Sedimentation Control    
State: Not Applicable
This Erosion and Sediment Control Ordinance is designed to provide minimum requirements for the control of erosion and sediment resulting from development. It applies to all land disturbances that require a permit. The principles behind the ordinance include minimizing soil exposure, retaining sediments onsite, and using performance measures and outcomes. Requirements include: a time requirement that limits soil exposure to no more than 21 consecutive days if there is site inactivity; Erosion and Sediment Control Plan written by a Kansas State .. Read More

Pinellas County, FL Incentivizes Affordable Housing
Date Added: Tuesday, August 31, 2021
Affordable Housing , Incentive Zoning, Healthy Communities    
State: Not Applicable
Pinellas County provides numerous incentives for affordable housing development: expedited permit processing, review fee relief, reduced parking requirements, housing in commercial zones, donation of publicly owned land, identifying qualified renters or buyers, density bonuses, accessory structures, reduced setback requirements, street design modifications, and zero lot lines. Where 20% of the units are affordable to households at 60% AMI or below, these incentives may apply... Read More

City of Santa Fe Integrated Pest Management Program for City Property
Date Added: Thursday, April 6, 2017
Pesticide Management    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance directs the City of Santa Fe to seek alternatives to pesticides, as well as only using traditional pesticides when no other option is feasible. This policy protects land and water quality as well as human health... Read More

Town of Francestown Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Solar and wind-powered devices are permitted in Francestown, New Hampshire for commercial use on lots of three acres or more at an elevation of fewer than 1,000 feet. According to its table of Permitted Uses and Special Exceptions, solar and wind-powered devices are permitted in Francestown’s Village and Rural Districts by special exception as well as in its Steep Slope, Aquifer, and Flood Plain Overlay Districts. Francestown, however, does not have a separate section within its Zoning Ordinance that describes the regulations or requirements fo.. Read More

Biking and Walking in the United States 2016
Date Added: Tuesday, July 10, 2018
Pedestrian Oriented Design (POD), Healthy Communities, Bicycle Infrastructure    
State: Not Applicable
The Benchmarking Project has 3 primary objectives: 1) to promote data collection and availability, 2) to measure progress and evaluate results, and 3) to support efforts to increase bicycling and walking. The project is also motivated by making the connection between active transportation and healthy communities. The first half of this report contains a review of relevant research that supports biking and walking improvements, and the second half of the report provides state and city data. Part one explains the Benchmarking Project and the data.. Read More

City of Belmont Traditional Neighborhood Development Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017
Development Standards, Quality of Life, Site Design Standards    
State: Not Applicable
The intent of the Traditional Neighborhood Development Provision “is to minimize traffic congestion, suburban sprawl, infrastructure costs, and environmental degradation”. The ordinance contains general standards and provisions, in addition to design standards for public and civic areas, shop fronts, businesses, multifamily and single family, and general architectural design standards... Read More

National Model Conservation Easement
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017
Open Space Preservation    
State: Not Applicable
This conservation easement is a model that demonstrates the necessary elements of a conservation easement. The sample was utilized by the Natural Lands Trust and its source is from The Conservation Easement Handbook: Managing Land Conservation and Historic Preservation Easement Programs (1988) compiled by the Trust for Public Land in conjunction with the Land Trust Alliance. This sample is discussed in the commentary Conservation Easements & Land Trusts: Overview, Examples and their Role in the Development Process, written by Sam Brown... Read More

City of Ketchum Dark Sky Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, January 19, 2017
Lighting    
State: Not Applicable
To protect the ability to view the night sky and conserve resources, the city of Ketchum passed a law known as the “Dark Sky Ordinance” in June of 1999. The ordinance regulates exterior lighting by requiring lights to shine downward only and reduce glare. Dr. Stephen Pauley, a local retired physician, was the visionary behind the ordinance. The town focused its efforts on an aggressive awareness campaign for businesses and residents, and provided inexpensive ways to change current fixtures. .. Read More

New York State Town Law Subdivision Review; Approval of Plats; Development of Filed Plats
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Site Plan Approval    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Town of Somers Scenic Resource Protection Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, April 17, 2017
Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

City of Peoria Desert Lands Conservation Overlay
Date Added: Tuesday, April 18, 2017
Overlay District, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
The Desert Lands Conservation Overlay (DLCO) of the City of Peoria is designed to protect desert hillsides in the City from development. It seeks to protect the sensitive habitats of the Sonoran Desert found in Peoria by providing controls for the development of desert conservation features such as ridges and peaks, major rock outcrops, critical wildlife habitat corridors, washes and riparian habitats... Read More

Model Small-Scale Solar Siting Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, June 18, 2018
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Town of Cortlandt Steep Slopes Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, May 1, 2017
Steep Slope Protection, Zoning, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

County of Douglas Environmental Overlay District Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, April 18, 2017
Overlay District    
State: Not Applicable
The ordinance establishes environmental overlay districts in order to protect the groundwater and wetlands of the community. Activities having the potential to impact the groundwater or wetlands are regulated, including the lot size for new homes which will require a septic tank or septic field, chemical or petroleum storage tanks, and any development within 100 feet of a wetlands area. The districts are marked on the town’s Zoning maps. .. Read More

City of Kingston Historic Preservation Commission
Date Added: Saturday, August 27, 2016
Historic Preservation    
State: Not Applicable
This law creates The Historic Landmarks Preservation Commission, as well as the guidelines for the Commission to follow. .. Read More

Michigan Sample Conservation Easement
Date Added: Thursday, April 13, 2017
Open Space Preservation    
State: Not Applicable
This is a model conservation easement that demonstrates the necessary elements of a conservation easement. Particular sections are specific to Michigan, but the general format may be followed in other states. .. Read More

City of Calimesa Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Calimesa, California has created a subsection under its zoning chapter on Residential Zone District specifically for listing solar energy design standards. Calimesa requires that future structures should be oriented to maximize solar access opportunities and that “streets, lot sizes and lot configurations should be designed to maximize the number of structures oriented so that the south wall and roof area face within 45 degrees of due north.” Other standards include that roof-mounted solar collectors be placed in the most obscure location and .. Read More

Repairing Buildings for Human Habitation Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, June 2, 2022
Quality of Life, Displacement    
State: Not Applicable
Greensboro, NC repairing Buildings for Human Habitation Ordinance combines a repair or destroy strategy with a code enforcement strategy. The city inspector can serve complaints on homeowners who violate minimum standards in Greensboro’s housing code. If the inspector finds conditions rendering a building unfit for human habitation, such as a lack of ventilation or unsanitary conditions, the inspector issues a complaint to the property owner. After a public meeting, the inspector determines whether the dwelling is unfit for human habitati.. Read More

City of Kirkwood Subdivision Code
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Landscaping, Tree Preservation & Protection, Subdivision Regulations    
State: Not Applicable
Kirkwood Subdivision requirements have two main environmental components. The first falls under Article 7, Minimum Design and Development Standards. The regulations require due regard for topography, watercourses, slopes etc. and are geared towards environmental protection. The second falls under Article 8, the Improvements section. This requires that improvements made to a site consider site grading and specific tree planting/replanting requirements... Read More

County of New Castle Local Natural Resource Protection Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, April 16, 2017
Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance provides regulatory protection of ecologically significant lands listed on Delaware’s natural areas inventory. It aims to accomplish this through establishment of protection standards, as well as specific guidelines for areas of importance including open space, flood plains, steep slopes, and forests... Read More


Plan4Health Active Living (APA)
Date Added: Tuesday, June 26, 2018
Pedestrian Oriented Design (POD), Transportation & Land Use Planning, Healthy Communities, Complete Streets    
State: Not Applicable
The Plan4Health American Planning Association Project released a report on Active Living. The Plan4Health coalition considers how the build environment supports or hinders active living (incorporating physical activity into everyday activities). The toolkit provides several resources to help communities incorporate active living principles into their community planning. This report also provides examples of communities who have best practices regarding bike-friendly businesses, smart trips (framework encouraging people to reduce solo trips and .. Read More

County of Knox Stormwater Management Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 13, 2016
Floodplain Regulations, Stormwater Management    
State: Not Applicable
Knox County has a number of ordinances not commonly found in other communities. Development is regulated within the 500-year floodplain, and before a property owner hands over title to his or her land or structure, a State-certified engineer must certify the as-built elevations of all structures in the floodplain comply with the standards of the ordinance. Building requirements mandate 1 foot BFE above the 500-year floodplain and construction fill between one-half the linear distance between the floodway line and the 100-year floodplain line un.. Read More

County of Knox Stormwater Management Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, October 21, 2015
Floodplain Regulations, Stormwater Management    
State: Not Applicable
Knox County has a number of ordinances not commonly found in other communities. Development is regulated within the 500-year floodplain, and before a property owner hands over title to his or her land or structure, a State-certified engineer must certify the as-built elevations of all structures in the floodplain comply with the standards of the ordinance. Building requirements mandate 1 foot BFE above the 500-year floodplain and construction fill between one-half the linear distance between the floodway line and the 100-year floodplain line un.. Read More

Town of New Paltz Wallkill River Recreation Overlay District
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017
Comprehensive Planning, Floodplain Regulations, Open Space Preservation, Overlay District, Recreational Uses, Smart Growth, Wildlife & Fish Habitat    
State: Not Applicable
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, .. Read More

New York State General City Law Subdivision Review; Approval of Plats; Development of Filed Plats Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Subdivision Approvals    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More


New York State Land Use Enabling Acts
Date Added: Monday, May 8, 2017
Land Use Planning, Local Governance, State Land Use Law, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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 .. Read More

Town of Wethersfield Wind Energy Conversion Device/Farm Licensing, Siting & Design Regulations & Requirements Law.
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Wind Energy    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

County of Teton Natural, Scenic, Agricultural, and Tourism Resources Protection Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, May 9, 2017
Development Standards, Ridgeline Protection, Scenic Resources, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
This ridgeline ordinance prohibits any ridgeline development from "skylining" meaning that no sky can be seen behind the structure as seen from specified public roads... Read More

Town of Batavia Wellhead Protection Overlay Zone Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, March 23, 2017
Overlay District, Zoning, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

City of Boulder Code § 9-9-17 Solar Access Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Monday, December 18, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
The City of Boulder, Colorado’s solar access regulation divides the city into three solar access areas to provide maximum solar access protection for each area, consistent with planned densities, topography, and lot configurations and orientations. The regulation then establishes solar fences in two of these solar access areas. Each solar fence completely encloses a lot in question, and its foundation is contiguous with lot lines. Further, solar fences are vertical, opaque, and lack any thickness. The regulation then forbids the construction of.. Read More


Town of Canadice Wind Energy Conversion System Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Wind Energy    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

Town of Clinton Cluster Development Residential Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, February 10, 2016
Clustering & Cluster Development    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

How Can a Community Create Affordable Housing Opportunities?
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016
Affordable Housing    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

Our Built and Natural Environments: A Technical Review of the Interactions Among Land Use, Transportation, and Environmental Quality Second Edition
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Land Use Planning, Quality of Life, Transit Oriented Development (TOD)    
State: Not Applicable
This report was developed to assist federal, state, local government agencies, real estate developers and investors, and communities to understand the important relationship between the built and natural environments. A review of scientific literature for this report shows transportation infrastructure, and building siting and design can directly and indirectly affect environmental quality, human health, natural habitats, and community quality of life. This report details the ways that how we build and where we build effects the natural environ.. Read More

Town of Fenwick Island Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Under its Renewable Energy System section within its Zoning Chapter, the Town of Fenwick Island in Delaware permits solar energy systems its zoning districts. According to Section 160-9(A), a “solar energy system is a renewable energy system designed and used to obtain energy from the sun in order to supply energy to a principal use of a structure.” These systems include but are not limited to solar hot water, air heating and cooling, and photovoltaic systems. The solar energy system sub-section goes on to list a few conditions that an applican.. Read More

Town of Mendon Environmental Protection Overlay Districts Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017
Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Flood Prevention, Historic Preservation, Official Map, Overlay District, Scenic Resources, Sewage Management, Steep Slope Protection, Timber Harvesting, Zoning, Wetlands & Watercourse Protection    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

Borough of Kutztown Subdivision and Land Development Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Subdivision Regulations, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
In its Subdivision and Land Development Chapter, the Borough of Kutztown in Pennsylvania included a small section on considerations for solar access. The section permits the Borough Council to allow variation to side lot line requirements if the goal is to maximize use of solar energy. Additionally, considerations will also be given to reserving solar easements within lots for protection of solar access. .. Read More

Village of Croton-on-Hudson Excavation, Filling & Topsoil Removal Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, May 3, 2017
Environmental Compliance, Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Landscaping, Scenic Resources    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Parking Management Strategies
Date Added: Wednesday, November 4, 2015
Smart Growth, Parking    
State: Not Applicable
Traditional parking policies, which generally focus on setting a minimum number of parking spaces for various land uses are based on standards developed by the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE). The Lancaster County Planning Commission conducted a study, Analysis of Regulatory Barriers to Affordable Housing, which found that the amounts of parking required for various housing types does not match what is needed and developed this document to help match parking supply to parking demand. The document details techniques that can be used .. Read More

City of New Britain: Principles For Transit-Oriented Development
Date Added: Friday, July 17, 2015
Transit Oriented Development (TOD)    
State: Not Applicable
This station area planning study provides an in-depth explanation of Transit Oriented Development (TOD), its role in municipal land use policy and its general principles. The study was developed for the City of New Britain to assess the existing conditions of the city’s Cedar and East Street Stations and provide design and development recommendations. The report contains detailed maps and visual representations of typical development and proposed development that can be used to assist communities in their own development planning... Read More

Housing Options Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, August 24, 2021
Accessory Uses , Affordable Housing , Density    
State: Not Applicable
Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) and duplexes are permitted as-of-right in all residential zones in Olympia while cottage houses, triplexes, fourplexes, and townhouses are permitted as-of-right in most residential zones. The city amended its zoning code to encourage infill development in three urban residential areas to prevent urban sprawl... Read More

Village of Croton-on-Hudson Erosion and Sediment Control Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, February 10, 2016
Erosion & Sedimentation Control    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

Town of Mount Pleasant Stormwater Management & Erosion & Sediment Control Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017
Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Stormwater Management, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
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... Read More

City of Bentonville Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
The city of Bentonville, Arkansas has created a separate Article, 601, in its Zoning Code for all use regulations. Section 601.24 specifically describes the requirements for solar energy systems. Bentonville considers the number of solar panels and supporting equipment as one system, without any limitation as to the number of modules and arrays installed on the property. The section includes location, height, and setback requirements for roof mounted, ground mounted systems, and pole mounted systems. Section 601.24 also includes regulations for.. Read More

Town of Blooming Grove Stormwater Management Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 5, 2017
Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Stormwater Management    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

The Town of Middleburgh Nonconforming Uses, Structures and Lots Ordinance
Date Added: Tuesday, May 23, 2017
Flood Prevention, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Code Compliance Relocation Ordinance
Date Added: Thursday, June 2, 2022
Displacement    
State: Not Applicable
Oakland, CA Code Compliance Relocation Ordinance provides for owner paid relocation payments and assistance to tenants who are displaced due to compliance with building, housing, and, fire codes. Relocation benefits and assistance are necessary to ensure that displaced tenants secure safe, sanitary and decent replacement housing. If the owner refuses to make the payment, Oakland can choose to pay the displaced tenant and then place a lien on the property to recover the costs. .. Read More

City and County of San Francisco Green Building, Environment Codes - Better Roof Requirements for Renewable Energy Facilities
Date Added: Wednesday, June 22, 2016
Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency, Solar Energy    
State: Not Applicable
In order to combat climate change and its potential effects on the peninsula based city, San Francisco has become the first large American city to enact an ordinance mandating that all new structures, fewer than 10 stories tall, must be outfitted with solar panels. This ordinance will take effect in 2017. The San Francisco ordinance exceeds the requirements set by state law mandating that new buildings must reserve a “solar zone” of roof space for the installation of solar panels. Although the article states that the California law mandates a .. Read More

Town of Yorktown Erosion and Sediment Control Permit Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, March 30, 2016
Erosion & Sedimentation Control    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

City of Hendersonville Subdivision Regulations Article III Design Standards and Improvement Requirements, 3-102 Lot Requirements, 3-102.6 Driveways/Access to Lots, Section 3- 102.605 Design Standards for Residential Driveways
Date Added: Tuesday, May 23, 2017
Steep Slope Protection, Stormwater Management, Subdivision Regulations    
State: Not Applicable
§ 3-102.605 of the City of Hendersonville’s Subdivision Regulations provides design standards for residential driveways in accordance with considerations appropriate to public health and safety and to limit possible traffic hazards. Specifically, where permitted, driveways fronting designated collector and arterial routes are to be designed so that vehicles are not required to back onto these highways. This section also regulates the slope of residential driveways: the slope of any driveway should not exceed 8% for the first 15 feet; driveways .. Read More

Creating Great Neighborhoods: Density in Your Community
Date Added: Wednesday, November 4, 2015
Mixed/Multiple Use, Transit Oriented Development (TOD), Parking, Density    
State: Not Applicable
Density is a key factor in in the success of smart growth and can often be opposed by communities because poorly designed density adds to public frustration. This report emphasizes the importance of a balanced perspective when considering how density should be created and what it should look like. To assist communities in achieving a balanced perspective, the report explains the benefits of density in a community, provides case studies of the success of well-designed density, and design principles that can be applied by local communities to suc.. Read More

Village of Croton-on-Hudson Water Supply Protection
Date Added: Wednesday, May 3, 2017
Aquifer Protection, Natural Resource Protection & Conservation, Drinking Water Protection & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

City of Grand Rapids Mixed-Use Commercial Zone Districts
Date Added: Friday, May 5, 2017
Mixed/Multiple Use, Pedestrian Oriented Design (POD), Transit Oriented Development (TOD)    
State: Not Applicable
The city code of Grand Rapids, Michigan provides for several different types of mixed-use districts under the overarching category known as mixed-use commercial zone districts. Grand Rapids is located on the Grand River, about 30 miles east of Lake Michigan, and the city has a population of approximately 193,627 people. In 2007, the city adopted a master planning process called “Green Grand Rapids,” and created a new zoning ordinance that incorporated tenets of Transit Oriented Development, LEED criteria and Smart Growth principles. Unde.. Read More

Town of Mamaroneck Erosion & Sediment Control Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017
Erosion & Sedimentation Control, Flood Prevention, Quality of Life, Stormwater Management, Watershed Protection    
State: Not Applicable
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 .. Read More

Town of New Pattonsburg Declaration of Community Responsibilities, Covenants, and Restrictions
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016
Energy Efficiency & Conservation    
State: Not Applicable
NOTE: This ordinance was not adopted by the Town of New Pattonsburg This ordinance would have done many things including lay out specific energy conservation requirements, however it was not adopted, and so has not yet been tested in practice. .. Read More

Town of North Castle Erosion and Sediment Control Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, March 2, 2016
Erosion & Sedimentation Control    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

City of Ronhert Park Local Energy Efficiency Standards & Green Buildings Ordinance
Date Added: Saturday, August 27, 2016
Green Buildings & Energy Efficiency    
State: Not Applicable
The City of Rohnert Park’s “Energy Efficiency Standards” set minimum energy efficiency requirements for all new low-rise residential construction of any size, all low-rise residential additions equal to or greater than one thousand square feet of conditioned floor area, and all residential and nonresidential swimming pools and water features. The standards operate by setting required levels of efficiency that exceed the state-level energy requirements by a certain percentage. The percentages are imposed on a sliding scale, such that increasing.. Read More

South Tacoma Groundwater Protection District
Date Added: Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Aquifer Protection    
State: Not Applicable
Tacoma established the South Tacoma Groundwater Protection District in order “to prevent the degradation of groundwater in the South Tacoma aquifer system by controlling the use and handling of hazardous substances.” Permits are required for all activities that use hazardous substances and applicants must have “demonstrated that said facility complies with all provisions of this chapter and the standards set forth in the General Guidance and Performance Standards.”.. Read More

Borough of Doylestown Zoning Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
In its Zoning Chapter, Doylestown, Pennsylvania created a section specifically for solar energy equipment, Section 615. Defined in the Specific Definition section of the chapter, solar energy equipment is “any device, structure or electronics that converts solar energy into electrical energy, heats water or produces hot air or similar function through the use of solar panels.” In it, Doylestown authorizes solar energy equipment in any zoning district as an accessory structure. The section goes on to list a few regulations including that the equ.. Read More

Town of Ellington Age-Restricted Cluster Housing Zone
Date Added: Thursday, May 4, 2017
Affordable Housing , Clustering & Cluster Development, Overlay District, Senior Housing, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
The Age-Restricted Cluster Housing Zone (ARCHZ) is a floating zone designed to increase availability of market rate privately developed, common interest communities for empty nesters and seniors, while maintaining the rural character of the town, preserving open space and protecting natural resources. ARCHZ zoned property shall only be used for single-family, attached or detached residential housing. Each unit must contain at least one individual 55 or over (or the survivor of such a person); and no more than one child, who must be at least 18 .. Read More

General Plans and Zoning: A toolkit for building healthy, vibrant communities
Date Added: Thursday, July 19, 2018
Land Use Planning, Healthy Communities, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
This resource is helpful for communities to look to see how zoning and public health relate. There is an overlap between public health and zoning. On page 135, the City of Berkley provides an example of zoning for food access. It discusses how local zoning and land use law influenced the city to cater to the needs of the town and push for a grocery store offering affordable fresh foods. When motivating community residents to speak for the needs of their fellow neighbors and quality of food access, projects get completed. This document also dis.. Read More

City of Lenexa Landscaping & Site Design Standards Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 12, 2017
Landscaping, Site Design Standards    
State: Not Applicable
This ordinance establishes landscaping standards for new site development in accordance with conservation and preservation goals. It dictates landscaping techniques, as well as strict regulations for the removal of existing vegetation... Read More

City of St. Louis Floodplain Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, April 13, 2016
Floodplain Regulations    
State: Not Applicable
The floodplain protection in the St Louis Revised Code lays out everything from the duties of the floodplain administrator to flood hazard reduction techniques and management procedures. It sets specific design criteria, for example that residences may not have living spaces below one food above flood level, or that commercial buildings use space below groundlevel only for parking... Read More

City of St. Louis Flood Plain Areas Ordinance
Date Added: Monday, March 21, 2016
Floodplain Regulations    
State: Not Applicable
The floodplain protection in the St Louis Revised Code lays out everything from the duties of the floodplain administrator to flood hazard reduction techniques and management procedures. It sets specific design criteria, for example that residences may not have living spaces below one food above flood level, or that commercial buildings use space below groundlevel only for parking... Read More

Town of Yorktown Erosion and Sediment Control Ordinance
Date Added: Wednesday, March 30, 2016
Erosion & Sedimentation Control    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

The High Cost of Free Parking
Date Added: Wednesday, October 28, 2015
Parking    
State: Not Applicable
This paper identifies free parking as the fundamental problem planners face with parking, and explores the consequences associated with it. Actual monetary cost as well as raised housing costs, and reduced urban density are all evaluated in relation to minimum parking requirements. The paper also provides information on how charging for curbside parking, as an alternative to minimum parking requirements, is more beneficial... Read More


Seattle 2035: Growth and Equity Analysis
Date Added: Tuesday, June 7, 2022
Healthy Communities, Equity, Displacement    
State: Not Applicable
Seattle’s Growth and Equity Analysis, is a companion document to Seattle’s Environmental Impact Statement that evaluates four alternative ways for distributing growth throughout the city. The Growth and Equity Analysis created two data indexes – the Displacement Risk Index and the Access to Opportunity Index. Each index is made up of a list of indicators. The document maps Seattle based on these indexes and data, evaluating the four growth alternatives with a social justice and equity lens. Maps of each indicator are included... Read More


City of San Antonio Aquifer Recharge Zone and Watershed Protection
Date Added: Wednesday, October 14, 2015
Aquifer Protection, Watershed Protection    
State: Not Applicable
San Antonio establishes its Aquifer Recharge Zone and Watershed Protection law in order to meet its “goal of nondegradation which maintains or improves the quality of water entering the Edwards Aquifer.” Persons wishing to develop in the recharge zone must submit a lengthy application that details the features of the property, creates plans for sediment control, drainage, and maintenance, details the activities that will take place on the property, and sets up required monitoring and performance requirements as provided by the law... Read More

Philadelphia Complete Streets Design Handbook
Date Added: Monday, June 25, 2018
Healthy Communities, Complete Streets    
State: Not Applicable
This Handbook will help inform the City, design professionals, developers, and community groups that are involved in the planning and design of streets and changes to the public right-of-way in Philadelphia. The Handbook identifies 7 conceptual complete streets components that make up the public right-of-way: Pedestrian, Building & Furnishing, Bicycle, Curbside Management, Vehicle/Cartway, Urban Design, and Intersections & Crossings. This Handbook will promote more efficient project implementation by serving as a comprehensive resource to guide.. Read More

City of Tulsa Watershed Development Regulations
Date Added: Wednesday, April 27, 2016
Watershed Planning    
State: Not Applicable
Tulsa has the highest CRS rating in the country and is currently at 2. Although this high rating is only partially attributed to its ordinances, its ordinances reflect very high standards. The ordinances are based on watershed development and include stormwater consideration. “The area of special flood hazard, policies and standards” provision endorses the concept of No Adverse Impact, specifically denying any development that would increase flows, flood heights, velocities that might affect other property and, in addition providing for compens.. Read More



New York City Housing Development Corporation Act
Date Added: Thursday, March 2, 2017
Local Boards, Local Governance    
State: Not Applicable
Legislation creating and empowering the New York City Housing Development Corporation. .. Read More

Parking Code Guidance: Case Studies and Model Provisions
Date Added: Friday, July 17, 2015
Parking    
State: Not Applicable
The Parking Code Guidance: Case Studies and Model Provisions paper was written as a part of the San Francisco Metropolitan Transportation Commission’s (MTC) Smart Growth Technical Assistance: Parking Reform Campaign. Its goal is to provide guidance on identifying key issues, reforming parking standards, and on how to regulate and manage parking in a way that supports development in urban infill areas, encourages balanced multimodal access, and reduces vehicle traffic. The guidance provided is based on best practices for access and parking regul.. Read More

Town of Brookhaven Central Pine Barrens District
Date Added: Wednesday, February 10, 2016
Comprehensive Planning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Washington Township Town Center District Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Transportation & Land Use Planning, Transportation Efficient Development    
State: Not Applicable
Washington Township’s “Town Center District” ordinance establishes standards for four different town center districts that create a mixed-use of housing, commercial, public and open space. It articulates policy statements to guide the review of all development applications within town center districts. There are 22 policies, including one that promotes a multi-modal transportation system, one that discourages uses that are automobile dependent, and one that promotes the creation of spaces that promote social interaction. The ordinance establ.. Read More

City of Ames Zoning Code; Section 29.1309- Solar Energy Systems
Date Added: Thursday, September 7, 2017
Solar Energy, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
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.. Read More

Town of Gardiner Subdivision of Land Ordinance
Date Added: Friday, April 14, 2017
Subdivision Approvals    
State: Not Applicable
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. .. Read More

City of Gothenberg Subdivision Regulations; Solar Zoning
Date Added: Wednesday, August 23, 2017
Solar Energy, Subdivision Regulations, Zoning    
State: Not Applicable
Within its Subdivision Chapter in its Code of Ordinances, the city of Gothenberg in Nebraska has integrated a section on solar access for energy conservation. The section consists of only two sub-sections that require streets in residential subdivision, where possible, have an east-west alignment and, in order to allow the orientation of structures on the site to maximize solar gain, “side lot lines should run as near to north-south as possible.”.. Read More

Parking Management Strategies, Evaluation and Planning
Date Added: Friday, July 17, 2015
Parking    
State: Not Applicable
This document was written as a summary to the book Parking Management Best Practices (Planners Press, 2006), which describes and evaluates more than two-dozen policies and programs that result in more efficient use of parking resources. Parking is undergoing a paradigm shift towards providing optimal parking supply and price, as opposed to the old paradigm which resulted in too much supply, and this paper details parking management strategies that are effective under the new paradigm as well as ways to implement them... Read More

Promoting Bicycling through Improved Infrastructure
Date Added: Thursday, April 26, 2018
Healthy Communities, Bicycle Infrastructure    
State: Not Applicable
Omaha, Nevada’s Master Plan includes a Transportation Element which outlines a future bicycle network through Omaha. The purpose of the network is to provide a bicycle facility (bike-oriented path) to all mixed-use centers in Omaha. The facilities were chosen based on traffic volume of the proposed route, distance between centers, and topography of the area. These facilities allow for safe passage and recreational activity. Bicycle facilities have three classifications: trails, paths, and routes. Bicycle trails give people a facility exclus.. Read More

Parking Pricing Implementation Guidelines
Date Added: Monday, July 20, 2015
Parking    
State: Not Applicable
This paper focuses on parking pricing as a part of an integrated parking management program. It provides guidelines for municipalities to use on optimal parking prices, revenue uses and the economic impact of parking prices. Also addressed are obstacles to parking pricing and potential solutions that can be used by a municipality to implement policies efficiently. The paper also details case studies that demonstrate successful implementation of various parking pricing policies in the United States, Canada, and Europe as examples to be followed... Read More

City of Hannibal Planned Density Residential District Ordinance
Date Added: Sunday, May 7, 2017
Planned Development Districts, Smart Growth, Zoning, Density    
State: Not Applicable
The Planned Density Residential District is established to ensure adequate infrastructure support and allow for flexibility of use of the land by developers. It requires increasing open space as a percentage of land as the number of residential units being built increases. The Rural District is to provide space for agricultural uses and the orderly transfer of land to urban uses, while the Agricultural District is solely for the former... Read More

Build-Out Analysis Pittsgrove Township, Salem County
Date Added: Wednesday, December 2, 2015
Land Use Planning, Build-Out Analysis    
State: Not Applicable
Pittsgrove Township completed its build-out analysis in August 2009 for the purpose of determining the capacity for new septic systems (and the homes they service) to be located within the township. To achieve this purpose, Pittsgrove not only examined the amount of development authorized by its zoning code like Fairfield Township, it also considered whether septic system yields affected the amount of development that was likely to occur in the community. Importantly, Pittsgrove looked at the fiscal implications that would result from full buil.. Read More