Introduction. Conservation subdivisions are a specific type of subdivision in rural settings that is characterized by relatively compact lots and preservation parcel(s), and where the natural features of land are maintained to the greatest extent possible. There are also other ways to define and develop conservation subdivisions for other settings. Generally, the building lots in a subdivision are grouped or clustered on only a portion of a parcel of land. The remainder of the site is called the preservation parcel.
Conservation subdivisions are an alternative approach to the conventional lot-by-lot division of land in rural areas which spreads development evenly throughout a parcel with little regard to impacts on the natural and cultural features of the area. Conservation subdivisions enable developers to concentrate units on the most buildable portion of a site while preserving natural drainage systems, preservation parcel, and environmentally and/or culturally sensitive areas.
Conservation subdivisions may not ensure protection of large blocks of agricultural land, nor are they the best measures to protect farming as a viable lifestyle; however, conservation subdivisions, when properly designed and implemented, can protect small blocks of agricultural land and promote areas where agricultural and residential activities can co-exist.
Purpose. This appendix outlines the standards and requirements for conservation subdivisions.
Applicability. The conservation subdivision standards apply to subdivisions of 20 acres or more, unless otherwise approved by the Commission.
Procedures. A conservation subdivision requires a Class II or Class III permit. All requirements of a Class II or Class III permit shall be met with the following additions and exceptions.
(A) Sketch plan review. A sketch plan (also known as concept plan or pre-application) review for all conservation subdivisions is strongly recommended to allow the Commission to become familiar with the development and to discuss the procedure for approval and design of a conservation subdivision. The sketch plan should contain adequate information of the site, including, but not limited to, natural features, critical areas, productive farm land, proposed preservation parcels, and a general proposed lot and road layout.
(B) Preliminary plat. The preliminary plat shall, in addition to the requirements in Appendix A, include:
(1) Natural resource features on the site, including, but not limited to, wetlands, floodplains, watercourses, irrigation structures, canals, ditches, existing wooded areas, steep slopes, drainageways, wildlife habitat and corridors, livestock corridors, any public access through or adjoining the property, and other prominent visual features;
(2) The proposed lots, roads, easements, preservation parcel(s), trails, and the like;
(3) Proposed methods for, and location of, water supply, storm water management, and sewage treatment;
(4) Inventory of preserved and disturbed natural features and prominent views on or adjacent to the site;
(5) Preliminary building envelopes, if necessary for the protection of sensitive areas and/or views; and
(6) Management plan for the long-term management of the preservation parcel, including enhancement or restoration, if needed to achieve the purpose of the preservation parcel conservation theme(s).