In the dynamic landscape of urban development, Transferable Development Rights (TDRs) have emerged as a pivotal tool in the City of New York’s urban planning and design strategy. Over the past five decades, TDRs have been instrumental in optimizing land use, allowing developers to navigate and maximize the potential of urban spaces. However, navigating the intricacies of TDRs involves a complex interplay with city agencies, making a deep understanding of the process indispensable.
A critical aspect of this process is the zoning lot certification, which is essential for activities such as lot merging, subdivision, or modifications to existing or new buildings. The County Clerk’s and City Registrar’s Offices play a significant role here, requiring the submission of specific zoning exhibits for thorough examination. These exhibits come in five acceptable forms:
Exhibit “I”: This is a Certification Pursuant to Zoning Lot Subdivision C, applicable for a tract of land under single ownership. It includes a comprehensive list of all parties with an interest in the property. This certification is typically provided by a title insurance company.
Exhibit “II”: This certification is for tracts of land with multiple owners, treated as a single zoning lot. It involves a Declaration of Restrictions, which may be written individually or collectively for each party in interest. The boundaries defined in this exhibit may align with those in Exhibits “IV” and/or “V”. Again, this is a service provided by a title insurance company.
Exhibit “III”: This is a Zoning Lot Description and Ownership Statement required by the Building Department’s permit applicant. It includes the tax lots applicable to the zoning lot and must be recorded in The City Register’s office (or the County Clerk’s office, where relevant) before any development or enlargement permit is issued. Title insurance companies can assist in preparing this document.
Exhibit “IV”: This exhibit is a Declaration of Zoning Lot Restrictions by the parties in interest, declaring a specific tract of land as a zoning lot (refer to Exhibit II). Preparation assistance is available from title insurance companies.
Exhibit “V”: This is a Waiver of Declaration of Zoning Restriction, where parties in interest waive their rights to execute a declaration like Exhibit “IV” (refer to Exhibit II). Title insurance companies can also assist in preparing this document.
At Sajour Land, we pride ourselves on delivering exceptional customer service and expert guidance in navigating these complex processes. Our team is equipped with the knowledge and experience to support you through every step of your urban development journey.
To explore how a partnership with Sajour Land can benefit your urban development projects, we invite you to contact us at (631) 414-7600 / 631-414-7598. Let us be your guide in the intricate world of TDRs and urban planning, ensuring your projects not only comply with regulatory standards but also achieve their fullest potential.
