What is the term for a formal agreement that outlines land use and development in a community?

The term that accurately describes a formal agreement outlining land use and development in a community is a Master Plan. A Master Plan serves as a comprehensive framework for future development in a specific area, addressing needs such as land use, transportation, housing, and public spaces. It guides the growth and development of a community over a specified period, often involving public input and analyses of various factors.

Master Plans are crucial for ensuring that development is organized and cohesive, allowing local governments to determine how land will be utilized in order to meet the needs of current and future residents. This strategic document is vital in planning for infrastructure, environmental considerations, and urban aesthetics, therefore influencing the overall character and functionality of a community.

While site plans focus on the specific design and layout of a particular project, urban zoning regulates the types of activities that can occur in specific areas, and development codes provide the technical standards and guidelines for building, none of these functions encompass the broader, comprehensive vision and policy direction of land use that a Master Plan provides.