Tips for a Conservation Subdivision Design • Pete Hurth, P.E., LEED AP • April 17th, 2009

Over the past 13 years I have been designing conservation subdivisions and learning what makes for an environmentally successful and profitable subdivision.

Here Is My Top Ten List

  1. Do adequate soils investigation; whether it is underlying bedrock or high groundwater table, these factors need consideration before starting a layout.
  2. Work with site grades; layouts must work with the land, not fight grades. Adjusting a site plan to avoid steep or low areas saves costs.
  3. Obtain safe access; be sure the selected access point makes sense and is safe from a traffic volume and site distance standpoint.
  4. Identify utilities; place lots in areas near existing utilities to prevent costly utility construction.
  5. Environmental issues; identify all wetlands, streams, drainage routes, wooded areas, environmental corridors, and old dump and stay away from them.
  6. Backyards are key; it seems that a major selling point of a lot is the back yard potential. Be sure back yards are adjacent to open space and wooded areas to bring top dollar.
  7. Walkouts sell; lots with adequate relief to allow walk out basements tend to sell first. Place lots accordingly.
  8. Walking/bike trails: be sure to keep trails away from building pads where possible, no one likes people strolling by while you are in the back yard entertaining guests.
  9. Architectural standards; a good set of standards helps avoid an eye sore in the neighborhood. Be sure all homes will be attractive upon completion.
  10. Use storm facilities as selling points; storm ponds if properly designed can be very attractive. Placement of home sites overlooking a beautiful pond will sell. Fountains, aquatic plantings, and even waterfalls can be incorporated into your plan.