Building structures on undeveloped land can be challenging, considering the construction can be subject to different regulations and zoning rules. There can be more stringent limitations for projects that involve properties with primary conservation areas (PCAs), which are protected resources according to local zoning guidelines.
Constructing on or near these PCAs can affect the surrounding ecosystem, leading to legal consequences based on the situation. Knowing what these PCAs look like and how to categorize them appropriately is vital, helping builders take precautions properly to avoid harming the environment. The following are considered PCAs:
- Shore impact zones (SIZs), which are strips of land along bodies of water, such as rivers
- Bluff impact zones (BIZs), which cover land and bluffs spanning 20 feet with an 18% slope or more
- Floodplains, which are areas with water signifying being covered by flooding
- Wetlands, which are areas with shallow water transitioning between land and larger bodies of water
- Native plant communities or land spanning at least five acres and deemed qualified to be under this category by the Minnesota Biological Survey
- Vegetative stands, which are plant-covered areas with significant amounts of native plants that are endangered or threatened species
Sometimes, identifying these PCAs can be easy. Other times, they may require professional opinions from agencies knowledgeable about these resources. Other PCAs can include historical sites, natural drainages and unstable land, which can also be dangerous to build on.
Securing the project and the environment
These regulations are in place for various reasons, such as protecting the environment and the nearby animals. Violating these rules can also put the project on the line, risking severe delays and costs or even halting it altogether. To avoid these scenarios, involving a legal professional during the planning stage can be helpful. Experienced legal guidance can help developers become thorough before proceeding with actual construction work to prevent harming these protected areas.