Greenbelt

Detailed Definition

A greenbelt refers to a designated zone of open, undeveloped land surrounding urban areas, which is set aside for the purposes of conservation, recreation, and environmental protection. Greenbelts aim to prevent urban sprawl while preserving areas of natural beauty and ensuring a sanctuary for wildlife. They serve as buffers that maintain the character and quality of the countryside and are often enforced by covenants, deed restrictions, or zoning laws.

Examples

1. Urban Greenbelt: The City of Boulder, Colorado, maintains a 45,000-acre greenbelt around the city known as the Boulder Mountain Parks. This area provides outdoor recreational opportunities to residents and visitors, helping preserve the natural ambiance of the city.

2. Developers and Greenbelts: A real estate developer was allowed an average density of 10 housing units per acre. He constructed a 20-unit apartment building on one acre while preserving two acres of wooded land behind it as a greenbelt. This action helped enhance property values and ensured a sustainable communal environment.

3. Historical Greenbelts: The London Metropolitan Green Belt was introduced in 1938 to stop the urban sprawl of London. This greenbelt resides around London, protecting the countryside from overdevelopment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the purpose of a greenbelt?

The primary aims of a greenbelt are to reduce urban sprawl, provide open space for recreation, conserve the environment, and enhance the habitat for wildlife.

Can residents utilize greenbelt areas?

Yes, often greenbelts are designed to provide recreational facilities such as parks, trails, and nature reserves, making them accessible for public use.

How are greenbelts enforced?

Greenbelts can be enforced by government regulations, such as zoning laws, or through private legal mechanisms such as covenants and deed restrictions.

Are greenbelts agriculturally productive?

In some cases, greenbelt policies may allow for controlled agricultural activities that do not compromise the conservation goals of the area.

Do greenbelts increase property value?

Property adjacent to greenbelts often enjoys increased value due to the availability of open space and the aesthetic appeal of natural surroundings.

Related Terms

Zoning

Zoning refers to land use regulation by Local Governments that controls the physical development of land and the kinds of activities that can take place there, ensuring sustainable and functional urban growth.

Conservation Easement

A conservation easement is a legal agreement between a landowner and a land trust or government agency that permanently restricts the development of the property to protect its conservation values.

Urban Sprawl

Urban sprawl describes the uncontrolled growth of urban areas into the surrounding rural land, significantly altered by the development of housing and businesses.

Covenant

A covenant is a written agreement or restriction in a deed of a property that serves to regulate land use and protect the amenities of the adjoining properties or the community at large.

Online Resources

1. Natural Resources Defense Council - Greenbelt

   • This page offers insights into how greenbelts can help in creating a sustainable and healthier environment.

2. American Planning Association

   • Useful resources discussing urban planning and how greenbelts can be integrated into municipal planning.

3. The Conservation Fund

   • Information on conservation programs aimed at protecting green spaces, including greenbelts.

References

1. Alexander, E. R. (2011). “Green Belts and Urban Growth: British and Canadian Approaches.” Oxford Journal of Urban Planning.
2. Daniels, T., & Lapping, M. (2005). “Land Resource Management: Greenbelt Planning in the United States.” Handbook of Land Use and Planning Policy.
3. Tang, X. (2017). “Urban Planning and Greenbelt Ecology.” Journal of Environmental Management, 187, 424-429.

Suggested Books for Further Studies

1. “Green Belts: The Global History of a Defining Urban Planning Principle” by Yang Xiao

   • A comprehensive examination of the history and development of greenbelts globally.

2. “The Death and Life of Great American Cities” by Jane Jacobs

   • While not exclusively about greenbelts, this book provides essential context on urban planning, of which greenbelts are a significant aspect.

3. “Green Infrastructure: Linking Landscapes and Communities” by Mark A. Benedict and Edward T. McMahon

   • This book explores the strategies and benefits of incorporating green infrastructure, including greenbelts, into urban and suburban development.

Real Estate Basics: Greenbelt Fundamentals Quiz