Land development is the process of turning raw, untouched land into space that can be used for a variety of purposes.
In doing so, developers must define the type of improvements they are planning, whether that is residential land development or some other type, to effectively plan out their projects.
To value a parcel of land, seek the necessary permits for a specific land project, and then generate a thorough land development and construction plan, project owners must refer to the six recognized types of land development and what is required for each.
1. Agricultural Development
Agricultural land development is the most basic form of turning raw land into ground that can be used for growing crops, raising livestock, and other agricultural endeavors.
To legally clear and improve land for agricultural use, developers must research local zoning laws and ordinances that outline what the property can specifically be used for, even in some rural areas.
Crop and livestock types may be restricted in certain locations, although the more rural the location is, the fewer the restrictions there are on the land.
2. Residential Development
Developing land for residential use is a broad category, as three categories of residence can be developed.
Residential land developers must determine whether they are involved in rural residential development, urban development, or rental development, each of which has separate zoning and residency laws and requirements.
Since residential development can greatly impact entire communities, it is essential to understand the laws about each type to create a plan that will be accepted by the local zoning board.
3. Commercial Development
Commercial land development is a category that encompasses a wide variety of uses, each with its own specific zoning and improvement requirements.
This type of development incorporates businesses such as restaurants, retail buildings, centers and malls, hotels and motels, office buildings, medical facilities, parking lots, and many other building types.
A land parcel’s fitness for a particular use will depend on what local ordinances apply to its location and any local laws on the types of businesses that are permitted.
4. Industrial Development
Industrial land development involves converting raw land into sites where factories, manufacturing and packaging plants, mills, chemical plants and oil refineries, storage facilities, and similar buildings can be built out of the way of residential properties.
Though industrial properties are typically found within urban areas, they are generally required to be located a certain distance from any residences to ensure local safety.
5. Public Development
Public land development is that which applies when converting raw land into schools, hospitals, police stations and fire departments, and other facilities that address public needs.
Although separate from any residential, commercial, or agricultural land development projects, these appear in any location where there is a need to serve the public in these ways.
A sub-category of public development is recreational development, which creates open public spaces like parks, hiking trails, hunting or fishing grounds, and the like.
6. Infrastructure Development
Land slated for use in serving the transportation, utilities, or communications industries is classified as industrial land development.
This involves the construction of highways, railways, airports, power plants, sewer plants, communications companies, and other businesses that provide essential services to residents and businesses.
Land Development Scope Depends on The Improvements Required
No matter what type of land development venture a project owner is involved in, each project will have specific requirements for zoning, permitting, and execution.
Noting this, deciding on the best use for a parcel of land, whether that be residential use, agricultural development, or other use depends on various legal and economic factors.
In terms of commercial or residential land development in more populated areas, project owners should seek properties that are already zoned for their specific use to minimize the challenges involved with getting their project started!
