Development Agreement
Field(s):
Community Development, Environmental Planning, Housing Planning, Land Use & Law , Hazard Mitigation and Disaster Recovery
Region of Focus:
General
A development agreement is a legally binding contract between a local government and a developer that outlines the terms and conditions for a specific project. These agreements provide certainty for both parties by detailing the responsibilities, timelines, and standards for development, including infrastructure improvements, public benefits, and mitigation measures.
Development agreements are often used for large-scale or complex projects to address potential impacts, ensure compliance with zoning and planning regulations, and secure community benefits such as affordable housing, parks, transit improvements, and hazard mitigation. They facilitate collaboration between public and private sectors, enabling flexible and context-sensitive development while protecting public interests.
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.