Large-Scale Developments

Large-Scale Developments (LSDs) exist on either very large zoning lots or across multiple lots. They avoid the rezoning issues that would arise from building a particular development across multiple zones, and allow for more design flexibility by redistributing bulk regulations, floor area, lot coverage, and open space across a site. Before approval, the City Planning Commission must deem that such redistributions will result in a better site plan than would be possible without modifying the original zoning. (nyc.gov, 2021) (mas.org, 2019)

There are three types of large-scale developments: large-scale general developments, large-scale residential developments, and large-scale community facility developments.

Large-scale general developments are located in medium- to high-density commercial and manufacturing districts. These developments must cover at least 1.5 acres of land, and may include existing buildings if they form “an integral part of the development. (nyc.gov, 2021)

Large-scale residential developments can be located either entirely in a residential district or in a commercial C1, C2, C3, or C4-1 district. There are two variations of large-scale residential developments. In the first, a minimum of 500 dwelling units can be built on an already vacant tract of land measuring at least three acres. The second allows for three residential buildings on a 1.5 acre area. Both are intended to promote a mix of apartment sizes and variations in building configurations that provides open space and encourages community facilities. Large-scale residential developments do not apply to the Quality Housing Program, and no existing buildings may remain.

Large-scale community facility developments are also located either in a residence district or a C1, C2, C3, or C4-1 commercial district. They require a minimum of three acres of lot coverage, and include schools, hospitals and day-care facilities.

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