How does cultural heritage factor into land use planning?

Land use planning in Virginia takes into account the importance of cultural heritage sites and seeks to protect them. Cultural heritage sites are defined by the National Register of Historic Places as those that represent a distinct heritage or culture, and Virginia has a wide array of these sites, from African American cemeteries to colonial-era homes. In order to preserve these sites, city planners must be mindful of their importance when creating land use plans and zoning maps. For example, a zoning map may take into account how close a new development can come to a cultural heritage site. In addition, the plans may be amended to protect nearby historic sites by prohibiting certain buildings or development activities such as excavations. The Virginia Department of Historic Resources has created a program known as the "Cultural Heritage Overlay District", which is designed to protect the cultural heritage sites within a city. This program encourages localities to develop their own plans to protect and preserve these sites. The program also provides guidance to localities on how to best incorporate the preservation of cultural heritage sites into their land use plans. Overall, land use planning in Virginia takes great care to consider the importance of cultural heritage sites and to work to preserve them for future generations. City planners are able to create zoning maps and land use plans that incorporate the preservation of these sites while still allowing for the development of new businesses and residences.

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How does cultural heritage factor into land use planning?

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