2017 Spencer Comprehensive Land Use Plan

Spencer, Iowa  2017  Comprehensive Plan

LAND USE DEFINITIONS

DEFINITION OF COMPREHENSIVE PLANNING Comprehensive planning is a transparent, public process in which communities establish a future vision and locally designated standards in order to promote public health, safety and prosperity. Successful planning attracts economic development, protects and preserves the community’s resources, and encourages a strong community identity. Defined by the Rebuild Iowa Office “Iowa Smart Planning”, 2010.

Vacant/No Land Use -

Land having no impact, improvements, or any obvious current land use; or land that is currently not utilized for any productive purpose. Land that is being used for crop production, the raising and/or production of livestock, and/or other agricultural-based commodities. Structures occupied for dwelling purposes by a single-family or two families living in separate dwelling units under a common roof. Structures and/or land used primarily for retail trade and service such as retail, grocery, entertainment, and other businesses providing the sale of goods and services; but excluding wholesale trade or manufacturing. Structures and/or land available for use by the public for non- commercial purposes such as schools, churches, cemeteries, fraternal or social clubs, and all government buildings. Structures occupied for dwelling purposes containing three (3) or more dwelling units.

Agricultural Land Use -

Single Family

Residential Land Use -

Multiple Family

Residential Land Use -

Commercial Land Use -

Public/Civic Land Use -

Industrial Land Use -

Uses of economic activity including forestry, fishing, mining, manufacturing, extracting raw materials, transportation, communications, and utilities.

Parks and Recreation

Public and/or private use areas devoted to active or passive recreation activities for use by the public. This includes city, county and state parks, playgrounds, trails, and similar uses.

Land Use -

Annexation - The incorporation of land into an existing community with a resulting change in the boundaries of that community. Growth Management - The pacing of the rate or controlling of the location of development via law enactment to manage a community's growth. Smart Growth - An approach to land use planning and growth management that recognizes connections between development and quality of life. In developing areas, the approach is more town-centered, transit and pedestrian oriented. Smart growth also seeks to preserve open space and natural resource amenities.

125 | P a g e

NW Iowa Planning & Development