Zoning is a critical component of land use planning and development in New Hampshire, as it directly impacts how land can be used, developed, and preserved. As a property owner, developer, or investor, understanding the different types of zoning in the state is essential for making informed decisions about buying, selling, or developing land. In this blog post, we will explore the various zoning categories in New Hampshire, discuss their key features and restrictions, and provide insights on how zoning can impact your property or development project.

Types of Zoning in New Hampshire

New Hampshire’s zoning regulations are primarily governed by local municipalities, which means that the specific zoning categories and requirements can vary from one town or city to another. However, there are several common types of zoning districts that can be found across the state. These include:

Residential Zoning

Residential zoning districts are designated for housing and are typically divided into subcategories based on housing density and type. Some common residential zoning categories in New Hampshire include:

• Low-Density Residential (LDR): This zoning category typically allows for single-family detached homes on larger lots, often with minimum lot size requirements to maintain a low population density.
• Medium-Density Residential (MDR): This category allows for a mix of single-family and multi-family homes, such as duplexes and townhouses, on smaller lots than those in LDR zones.
• High-Density Residential (HDR): This zoning category permits higher-density housing options, such as apartments and condominiums, and is often found in urban or densely populated areas.

Commercial Zoning

Commercial zoning districts are designated for businesses and commercial activities, such as retail stores, offices, and restaurants. Some common commercial zoning categories in New Hampshire include:

• Neighborhood Commercial (NC): This category is designed for small-scale retail and service businesses that primarily serve nearby residential neighborhoods.
• General Commercial (GC): This zoning category allows for a wider range of commercial uses, including larger retail establishments, offices, and automotive-related businesses.
• Highway Commercial (HC): This category is typically found along major roadways and highways and permits uses such as gas stations, hotels, and big-box retail stores.

Industrial Zoning

Industrial zoning districts are designated for manufacturing, warehousing, and other industrial activities. Some common industrial zoning categories in New Hampshire include:

• Light Industrial (LI): This zoning category permits less-intensive industrial uses, such as small-scale manufacturing, research and development facilities, and warehousing.
• Heavy Industrial (HI): This category allows for more intensive industrial uses, such as large-scale manufacturing, processing plants, and heavy machinery operations.

Mixed-Use Zoning

Mixed-use zoning districts are designed to promote a combination of residential, commercial, and sometimes industrial uses within a single area. These districts are often found in urban centers or downtown areas and aim to promote walkability, reduce dependence on automobiles, and foster vibrant, diverse neighborhoods.

Agricultural and Rural Zoning

Agricultural and rural zoning districts are designated to protect and preserve farmland, open space, and rural landscapes. These districts often have large minimum lot size requirements and restrict non-agricultural development to maintain the rural character of the area.

Conservation and Recreation Zoning

Conservation and recreation zoning districts are designated to protect environmentally sensitive areas, such as wetlands, forests, and wildlife habitats, and to promote outdoor recreational activities. These districts often impose strict development restrictions or prohibit development altogether to preserve the natural environment.

Forestry Zoning

Forestry zoning districts are designated to protect and manage forests and woodlands for sustainable timber production, wildlife habitat, and recreational use. These districts often include specific management guidelines and restrictions to ensure that forestry practices are conducted in an environmentally responsible manner. Some common features of forestry zoning districts in New Hampshire include:

• Minimum lot size requirements for forestry parcels to ensure sustainable management
• Restrictions on non-forestry land uses, such as residential or commercial development
• Requirements for a forest management plan, which outlines sustainable harvesting practices and long-term management objectives
• Provisions for public access to forests for recreational activities such as hiking, hunting, and fishing

In some cases, forestry zoning may overlap with agricultural, rural, or conservation zoning districts, depending on local regulations and land use goals. It is important to consult your local zoning ordinance to determine the specific requirements and restrictions that apply to forestry zoning in your area.

Conclusion

Understanding the different types of zoning in New Hampshire, including forestry zoning, is essential for property owners, developers, and investors seeking to navigate the state’s land use regulations. By familiarizing yourself with the various zoning categories and their associated restrictions, you can make informed decisions about your property or development project and ensure compliance with local land use laws. As always, consult with local planning and zoning officials and professionals to ensure that you have a clear understanding of the zoning regulations and requirements that apply to your specific property or project.