General Information: Cluster Development

Cluster developments have provided much of the open space, about 165 acres, for the Middle Brook Trail at no cost to The Township or to the state.
   
In any residential zone, an applicant for a major subdivision (three or more lots), of ten or more acres, may apply for a cluster development. The applicant must show two sketch plans. One shows a conventional layout conforming to all zoning, environmental, and township land use requirements. The other shows the lots arranged as a cluster. This plan must show the area that is to be retained as open space or used for other municipal purposes. The maximum number of building lots in the cluster development remains the same as the conventional subdivision. Each cluster lot must be between sixty and seventy five percent of the required lot size in its' zone. The cluster lots must be located along the internal roadways of the subdivision and lots along existing roadways must conform to the conventional zoning.
   
It is important to note that the Township Planning Board has full authority over the use and location of the dedicated land. Lands should be located to meet the needs of open space, parks and playgrounds, or environmental protection, among others. All dedicated lands shall be deeded free and clear of all mortgages and encumbrances.
Cluster developments have provided much of the open space, about 165 acres, for the Middle Brook Trail at no cost to The Township or to the state.
   
In any residential zone, an applicant for a major subdivision (three or more lots), of ten or more acres, may apply for a cluster development. The applicant must show two sketch plans. One shows a conventional layout conforming to all zoning, environmental, and township land use requirements. The other shows the lots arranged as a cluster. This plan must show the area that is to be retained as open space or used for other municipal purposes. The maximum number of building lots in the cluster development remains the same as the conventional subdivision. Each cluster lot must be between sixty and seventy five percent of the required lot size in its' zone. The cluster lots must be located along the internal roadways of the subdivision and lots along existing roadways must conform to the conventional zoning.
   
It is important to note that the Township Planning Board has full authority over the use and location of the dedicated land. Lands should be located to meet the needs of open space, parks and playgrounds, or environmental protection, among others. All dedicated lands shall be deeded free and clear of all mortgages and encumbrances.