Back to Solutions: Preserving Open Space and Farmland

Clustered Development or Open Space Zoning

Clustered Development or Open Space Zoning unlike typical subdivisions which divide the land into large lots, allows development on only a portion of the land while conserving the remainder as open space. "Open Space Zoning: What It Is & Why It Works", by Randall Arendt (from the Planning Commissioners Journal). One of the nation's leading advocates of "open space" zoning describes its advantages over conventional zoning regulation in preserving open space, natural areas, and farmland. "Growing Greener: Conservation Subdivision Design" (excerpts online), also by Randall Arendt. This article condenses material from Arendt's book, Conservation Design for Subdivisions: A Practical Guide to Creating Open Space Networks. Photo below is of part of the Woodward development in Kennett Township, Chester County, Pennsylvania. This project was planned according to conservation design principles, preserving ponds and open space, while clustering the homes. Photo by Arendt, included in "Growing Greener" article noted above. "An Examination of Market Appreciation for Clustered Housing with Permanent Open Space". Research conducted by the Center for Rural Massachusettes.