American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What is the main goal of Transfer of Development Rights?

1. To increase land values in urban areas

2. To prevent urban sprawl

3. To allow property owners to build wherever they choose

4. To link historical preservation zoning

The correct answer is: To prevent urban sprawl

The main goal of Transfer of Development Rights (TDR) is indeed to prevent urban sprawl. TDR is a zoning tool that enables landowners in designated sending areas (often rural or ecologically sensitive regions) to sell their development rights to landowners in designated receiving areas (usually urban or more densely populated locations). By facilitating this transfer, TDR incentivizes the preservation of open space, agricultural lands, and natural habitats while concentrating development in areas where it can be more effectively managed. This tool promotes smart growth strategies by allowing urban development to occur in pre-determined areas without the need for expanding infrastructure into less developed regions, thus combating issues of urban sprawl. Through this mechanism, communities can control and guide growth patterns, enhance land use planning, and promote sustainable development, making it an effective approach to maintaining the character of rural areas while accommodating urban growth.