Model Ordinance: Open Space Development (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency)
Protecting natural, historic and community resources is a priority to many communities. Open space development is a useful tool in achieving this goal. Some of the numerous environmental and community benefits a jurisdiction may realize through the promotion of open space development include:
- creating a sense of community
- increasing future property values
- reducing stormwater pollution
- reducing soil erosion
- creating urban wildlife habitats
The EPA has developed a model ordinance template as a resource for local governments trying to promote open space development within their jurisdiction. The ordinance, which is broken into six sections, introduces the purpose of the regulation, defines appropriate terms, discusses design criteria and requirements for all open spaces, and outlines appropriate open space management strategies.
This document provides sample language for local governments interested in promoting open spaces in their community. The ordinance is designed to be flexible enough for any local government to use, but is not an exhaustive listing of all language needed to create a local ordinance. It provides a good base that communities can build upon and customize to be consistent with the resources available in their locality.
