This Innovative Land Use handbook includes sections dealing with development density, environmental characteristics, and site level design. Each of the 23 chapters includes model ordinances and regulations for use by municipalities interested in implementing the innovative land use techniques.
Please Note! Updates and new chapters will be added to this document as they are created. Please check this site regularly for new information.
Innovative Land Use Planning Techniques: A Handbook for Sustainable Development
To assist users, the handbook is available in three versions.
- Complete Handbook
(7 MB) - This is available for download and printing.
- New Chapters added as addendums to Complete Handbook
2.9 Fluvial Erosion Hazard Area Zoning (added Sept. 2010)
Complete Chapter/Ordinance Template Only 
- New Chapters added as addendums to Complete Handbook
- Individual Complete Chapters (links below): These are available in pdf for quick chapter access and printing.
- Model Ordinances in Word (links below): These are only the model ordinance sections of the chapters. The models are intended for use as a starting point. It is recommended that planning boards thoroughly review the model language, adapt the language for specific municipal needs, and seek legal review prior to adoption.
Complete Chapters and Ordinance Templates
Cover, Table of Contents and Introduction
Section 1: Multi-Density Zoning
1.1 Density Transfer Credit:
Complete Chapter / Ordinance Template Only
1.2 Lot Size Averaging
Complete Chapter / Ordinance Template Only
1.3 Feature-based Density
Complete Chapter / Ordinance Template Only
1.4 Conservation Subdivision
Complete Chapter / Ordinance Template Only
1.5 Village Plan Alternative
Complete Chapter / Ordinance Template Only
1.6 Infill Development
Complete Chapter / Ordinance Template Only
1.7 Agriculture Incentive Zoning
Complete Chapter / Ordinance Template Only
1.8 Urban Growth Boundary and Urban Service District
Complete Chapter / Ordinance Template Only
1.9 Inclusionary Housing
Complete Chapter / Ordinance Template Only
Section 2: Environmental Characteristics Zoning
2.1 Permanent (Post-Construction) Stormwater Management
Complete Chapter / Ordinance Template Only
2.2 Steep Slopes and Ridgeline Protection
Complete Chapter / Ordinance Template Only
2.3 Habitat Management
Complete Chapter / Ordinance Template Only
2.4 Wetlands Protection
Complete Chapter / Ordinance Template Only
2.5 Protection of Groundwater and Surface Water Resources
Complete Chapter / Ordinance Template Only
See Also: DES Drinking Water Program's
"Model Groundwater Protection Ordinance" for another example
2.6 Shoreland Protection: The Importance of Riparian Buffers
Complete Chapter / Ordinance Template Only
2.7 Flood Hazard Area Zoning
Complete Chapter / Ordinance Template Only
2.8 Erosion and Sediment Control During Construction
Complete Chapter /Ordinance Template Only
2.9 Fluvial Erosion Hazard Area Zoning (NEW CHAPTER added Sept. 2010)
Complete Chapter /Ordinance Template Only
Section 3: Site-Level Design
3.1 Transit-oriented Development
Complete Chapter / Ordinance Template Only
3.2 Pedestrian Oriented Development
Complete Chapter / Ordinance Template Only
3.3 Access Management
Complete Chapter / Ordinance Template Only
3.4 Preserving Dark Skies
Complete Chapter / Ordinance Template Only
3.5 Energy Efficient Development
Complete Chapter / Ordinance Template Only
3.6 Landscaping
Complete Chapter / Ordinance Template Only
For more information or comments on the content of these chapters, contact Eric Williams at the NH Department of Environmental Services, eric.williams@des.nh.gov or (603) 271-2358.
Adobe Acrobat Reader format. Download a free reader from Adobe.
Microsoft Word format. Download a free viewer from Microsoft.