What is Developable Land Area? A Comprehensive Legal Overview

Q: Can I develop land that is currently designated as open space?

No, land designated as open space is excluded from being classified as developable land.

Q: How do I find out if my land is developable?

Consult your local zoning office or use legal resources to understand the regulations that apply to your property.

Definition & Meaning

Developable land area refers to a specific portion of land within a designated smart growth zoning district that is suitable for residential or mixed-use development. This area is identified based on regulations set by the relevant authorities. It excludes:

Land that is already significantly developed, such as existing parks or open spaces.
Open spaces designated by local governments.
Contiguous land areas larger than half an acre that are unsuitable for development due to environmental or topographical issues.

Table of content

Legal Use & context

The term "developable land area" is primarily used in land use planning and zoning law. It is relevant in the context of urban development, real estate, and environmental regulations. Legal practitioners often encounter this term when dealing with zoning applications, land use permits, and real estate development projects. Users can manage some aspects of these processes themselves using legal templates provided by US Legal Forms, which are drafted by experienced attorneys.

Key legal elements

Real-world examples

Here are a couple of examples of abatement:

Example 1: A city identifies a vacant lot within a smart growth zoning district that has been underutilized. This lot has the potential to be developed into a mixed-use building, making it a designated developable land area.

Example 2: A previously industrial site is repurposed into residential units, qualifying as developable land area due to its underutilized status and compliance with zoning regulations. (hypothetical example)

Relevant laws & statutes

The primary statute governing developable land area is found in the Massachusetts General Laws, specifically ALM GL ch. 40R, § 2. This law outlines the criteria for identifying and utilizing underutilized land for residential or mixed-use development.

State-by-state differences

State	Variations in Definition
California	Focuses on sustainable development and may include additional environmental considerations.
New York	Emphasizes community input in the development process, potentially affecting what is considered developable.

This is not a complete list. State laws vary and users should consult local rules for specific guidance.

Comparison with related terms

Term	Definition
Buildable Land	Land that can be developed but may not be within a smart growth district.
Underutilized Land	Land that is not fully developed but may not meet the criteria for developable land area.

Common misunderstandings

What to do if this term applies to you

If you are considering developing land, first verify whether the area qualifies as developable land. Consult local zoning regulations and consider using US Legal Forms to access legal templates that can assist with the development process. If your situation is complex, seeking professional legal advice may be beneficial.

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Quick facts

Typical size for developable land area: Must be less than half an acre of contiguous land.
Common uses: Residential and mixed-use development.
Key considerations: Zoning regulations and environmental impact.

Key takeaways

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between developable land and buildable land?

Developable land refers to areas within zoning districts suitable for development, while buildable land may not be subject to the same zoning regulations.