What is Open Space Residential Design (OSRD)?

Also known as "Conservation Subdivision," “Cluster” or “Natural Resource Protection” Zoning, OSRD bylaws allow developers to create a subdivision with smaller lot sizes, so long as they place the balance of the project’s overall land into permanent land preservation. Developers win by being able to create the same amount of house lots, and in some cases the flexibility to add more, as they would under conventional lot layouts, and communities win by having land preservation accompany development.

Throughout this two-year project, SRPEDD will review existing OSRD-related bylaws in the region for low impact development design principles (using Mass Audubon’s Bylaw Review Tool) and compile a regional database of bylaws. SRPEDD will conduct one-on-one interviews with communities to discuss their bylaws and compile a list of regional challenges to adopting and implementing bylaws and potential solutions.

For two case study communities, the towns of Dighton and Middleborough, SRPEDD will review and recommend updates to each town’s bylaw and work with each town to prepare and pass an updated version, providing guidance and support as needed to educate the public and town staff on the provisions of the new bylaw.

The culmination of this work will be a region-wide peer-to-peer learning event, where all communities interested in revising or adopting OSRD bylaws can participate and learn about best practices and strategies for implementing a successful bylaw.