The Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) program enables the Stafford County Government to acquire conservation easements voluntarily offered by property owners as a way to ensure that Stafford’s resources are protected and efficiently used, and limits further residential development on a property.  The program is proposed to preserve open space and rural lands; farm and forest land; water resources and environmentally sensitive lands; and wildlife and aquatic habitat.  It will also help to shape the character, direction and timing of development in the County; improve the quality of life for residents; and promote recreation and tourism through the preservation of scenic and historic resources.

The Board of Supervisors established the Purchase of Development Rights Committee to implement the Purchase of Development Rights Program that the Board adopted in February 2007 (Chapter 22A, County Code).  The Committee works with the Program Administrator to promote the PDR program and review applications from landowners who apply to the program.

The PDR program is in the early stages of development.  The County anticipates that the program will be ready for applications in mid-2008.  Further details will be provided, so please check back for updates.

The following link is a presentation which was shown at the initial PDR meeting held in 2007:
PDR Public Information Powerpoint

The following links may provide additional information regarding land conservation: