An important aspect of land development is subdivision site design standards. Subdivision planning is a crucial part of community development that focuses on how to regulate parcels of land to be divided into developable lots. There is a further focus on how those lots are then designed and laid out through the development steps.
How The Subdivision Planning and Design Process Works
The first step in this process is typically a sketch plan. This plan will basically show the layout and any necessary provisions for public infrastructure. Later, there will be the creation of a detailed plat. Here is where developers will indicate building footprints and measurements. Finally, these plans will culminate in a final plat. This document can be used to officially create new lots. Smaller subdivisions will require less planning than larger developments.
Why Is This Process Needed?
When communities grow, it is necessary to identify where further growth and development should be concentrated. Long-range planning can help communities to grow in a steady and sustainable way. There are times when pressure can be put on developers to use land that is already prone to risks and hazards. An example of this might be pressurized interest to develop areas that have known hazards, such as flooding or landslides.
There are also often conflicting interests at play when land is being planned for development. For instance, in a community where additional housing is needed for a growing workforce, there could be a conflict between developing this housing and protecting natural areas. Subdivision planners and designers must balance these conflicts and find sustainable ways to develop areas that work for everyone involved and meet the growing needs of the community.
Possible Risks of Poor Planning
When communities do not seek out the professional planning services of disinterested third parties, they run the risk of endangering the land and the future sustainability of their communities. This can also present real physical dangers to residents. If subdivisions are developed despite apparent local risk factors, people can get seriously injured during natural disasters such as floods, landslides, rock slides, earthquakes, and more.
Although the planning stage takes an investment of both time and money, it is necessary and beneficial to all parties that are involved in the long run. This is one of the ways that communities can be assured that their growth and development will be safe and healthy.
Careful land development planning can help groups find a healthy middle ground for community growth and sustainability.