Legal Definitions - master plan

A master plan is a comprehensive, long-term document created by a local government, such as a city or county, to guide future development and land use within its jurisdiction. It serves as a blueprint for how the community intends to grow and evolve over many years, typically 10 to 20 years or more. This plan sets out broad policies and goals for various aspects of community life, including:

• Where different types of land uses should be located (e.g., residential neighborhoods, commercial districts, industrial zones, parks, and open spaces).
• How infrastructure will be developed or expanded to support growth (e.g., roads, public transportation, water, sewer, and utilities).
• Strategies for protecting natural resources, managing environmental impacts, and promoting sustainability.
• Plans for public facilities like schools, libraries, and community centers.

The master plan is a foundational document that informs specific zoning ordinances, development regulations, and capital improvement projects.

Here are some examples illustrating how a master plan works:

• Example 1: A rapidly growing suburban town.

  Imagine a suburban town experiencing a boom in population. To manage this growth effectively, the town council develops a master plan. This plan might designate specific areas for new single-family homes and apartment complexes, identify locations for future schools and shopping centers, and outline routes for new roads to alleviate traffic congestion. Crucially, it would also include provisions for preserving significant natural areas, creating new public parks, and ensuring that new developments do not strain the town's water supply or increase pollution. This comprehensive approach ensures that growth is organized and benefits the community as a whole.

• Example 2: A coastal city revitalizing its historic waterfront.

  Consider an older coastal city with a neglected industrial waterfront. The city's master plan for this area could envision transforming old warehouses and docks into a vibrant mixed-use district. The plan might specify zones for new residential condominiums, boutique shops, restaurants, and public promenades with access to the water. It would also address environmental concerns like flood resilience, designate areas for marine conservation, and plan for public transportation links to connect the revitalized waterfront with the rest of the city. This plan provides a clear vision for redevelopment while balancing economic, social, and environmental goals.

• Example 3: A rural county balancing agriculture and tourism.

  A rural county known for its agricultural heritage and scenic beauty wants to attract more tourism without losing its character. Its master plan would identify and protect prime farmland from residential or commercial encroachment, designate specific corridors for agritourism (like vineyards or farm-to-table experiences), and plan for infrastructure improvements (such as improved roads or broadband internet) to support these ventures. The plan would also include policies to maintain the rural landscape, protect water quality, and ensure that new tourist facilities are built in a way that is compatible with the county's existing environment and community values.