A land owner is responsible for complying with the relevant Physical Planning regulations, building regulations and land use requirements. Failure to do so would result in the owner being liable for any remedial action resulting from being issued a Compliance Notice and/or Stop Orders and face legal action, and can go as far as demolition.

Read through the topics below of recommended steps to take before completing work on a plan to be submitted for Physical Planning Approval. Each topic is accompanied by series of questions followed by a solution. It is helpful to go through this list prior to purchasing land, especially when there is a specific use in mind. This would reduce possible land use conflicts and difficulties during the Physical Planning process.

Once this list has been reviewed, the Planning and Building Guide (see under the main heading Requirements), will give more specifics regarding Physical Planning requirements. Also see the Glossary and Frequently Asked Questions for additional information. It is always advisable to consult with officers at the Physical Planning Division to discuss proposals.

• Type of Application

  • What is the type of building to be constructed and how will it be used? e.g. cottages, single family residential, commercial, light industry etc.
  • Have you researched Planning Requirements and related checklists for that building type?
  • Is the building type appropriate for the selected site and area?

  Solution: Application Types, Checklists and Application Review Process.

• Land Use

  • What are the predominant type of buildings found in the area? e.g. industrial buildings, farm houses, residential houses, etc.
  • What is the predominant type of use of land in this area? e.g. industry, agriculture, residential, etc.
  • Are/is there a Land Use plan, Development plan, any zoning requirements, any historic significance or other proposals for the area? e.g. Pont Casse, North East, Warner, Cottonhill, Roseau, etc.

  Solution: Ensure that the proposal complies with the Physical Planning Division Land-use requirements. This would determine building size, building type, height and location. Follow the links under the main heading Land use and Development, specifically Land Use and Development Plans and Roseau Development Plan.

• Subdivision of Land

  Consider the following:

  • Is the property part of a legal or illegal subdivision of land?
  • What are the Minimum Lot sizes?
  • Is there a Maximum Building footprint?
  • Are there any Building Height Restrictions?
  • Have you looked into the Physical Planning checklist regarding subdivision of lands?

  Solution: Before purchasing any land investigate whether the property is part of a legal subdivision. This can be done by visiting the Physical Planning Division's Land use department. Also see Subdivision of Lands and Approved Subdivisions.

• Environmental Impact Assessment

  • Will the project require an Environmental Impact Assessment?

  Solution: Projects of a certain size and type outline in Schedule II of Act 5 require an Environmental Impact Assessment. For projects that do not require EIA's it is recommended that you follow the guide to reduce negative impacts on the environment.

• Size of Lots

  • Is the lot size appropriate for its proposed use?

  Solution: The lot area for individual buildings must be sufficient to allow space for the building and other essential activities. In addition there must be Physical Planning and Development Authority provision for convenient access for pedestrians, natural light, privacy, ventilation. Follow the links under Resources > Planning and Building Guide and Lot Sizes.

• Building and Structure Specifics

  • Will the size of the building be adequate for the size of the lot to satisfy required building setbacks from the property boundary? Floor area ratio?
  • Have you considered the size of the building in relation to the land?
  • Is there enough room for parking?
  • Will the property be fenced or will a boundary wall be constructed?
  • How will waste be disposed of? e.g. solid and liquid including storm water and runoff

  Solution: Follow the links under Resources > Planning and Building Guide.

• Access and Roads

  • Is there existing access to the site?
  • Is there existing access public right of way?
  • Does the access meet current Planning standards?
  • What is the condition of the access: dirt road, track, concrete surfaced or asphalt surfaced?

  Solution: Ensure that the site has adequate access that considers not just the current demands but also the demands in the future. The number and size of vehicles are increasing and it is crucial that access to a site is established to accommodate appropriate traffic. This would is already be required of legal subdivisions. See Access and Roads.

• Proximity to Beaches, River and Other Natural Features

  • Is the existing public access?
  • Is there enough land to allow adequate setbacks from the high water mark?

  Solution: See Access and Roads, Public Rights and Building Setbacks.

• Agricultural Projects

  • Is the site appropriate for the desired type of development?
  • Have you consulted with the Ministry of Agriculture?
  • Will a structure be constructed on site?

  Solution: Consult with the Development Control Officer for your area as well as an officer in the Land use Department. Agricultural applications are only submitted to the Physical Planning Division if a structure is to be constructed, but it is always recommended to inquire about any Land use compatibility. See Land Use and Development Plans and Referring Agencies.

• Tourism Projects

  • Is the site appropriate for the desired type of development?

  Solution: Consult with Officers at the Physical Planning Division regarding Land use. See Land Use and Development Plans for Land use options, Design Guidelines for Sustainable Tourism Development for a guide to building and Referring Agencies for other government departments consulted for Tourism Projects.

• Historic Buildings

  • Are there buildings or ruins on site that are considered to have historical significance?
  • Do these buildings fall within the Roseau Historic District?

  Solution: See Roseau and Historic Preservation.