Cluster Development
Field(s):
Community Development, Land Use & Law , Urban Design, Economic Development, Hazard Mitigation and Disaster Recovery
Region of Focus:
General
Cluster development is a land use strategy that concentrates buildings and infrastructure in specific site areas while preserving open space, natural features, or agricultural land. This approach contrasts with conventional sprawl development by promoting compact, efficient land use and environmental conservation.
Cluster development often involves grouping residential, commercial, or mixed-use structures in higher-density nodes, surrounded by shared green spaces, parks, or protected habitats. Key features of cluster development often include:
Smaller individual lots with shared open space.
Flexible zoning or subdivision rules to allow clustered layouts.
Often includes trails, community gardens, or stormwater areas in shared space.
May involve conservation easements to keep land permanently protected.
Cluster development is widely used in suburban and rural planning to balance growth with environmental stewardship.
Last update:
April 16, 2025
Developed by:
The Urban Lexis Editorial Team
Contributor(s):
With support from:
ChatGPT (by OpenAI) and DeepSeek
We acknowledge the assistance of AI tools in helping draft content. Final edits, fact-checking, and curatorial decisions were made by the Urban Lexis Editorial Team to ensure quality and relevance for our planning community.