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.

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Pilot Program for Purchase of Development Rights:

The application period for the County's pilot program closed on April 30, 2009.  

Six applications were received by the April 30, 2009 deadline.  Click here for information regarding the properties.

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Click here to View the PDR Powerpoint Presentation from the February 10, 2009 public information meeting regarding the pilot program.

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Agricultural/Purchase Development Rights Committee:
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 (O09-02,Chapter 22A, County Code).  The PDR program enables the County to acquire conservation easements voluntarily offered by property owners to limit further residential development.  The Committee works with the Program Administrator to promote the PDR program and review applications from landowners who apply to the program.  

In 2010, the Agricultural Commission and Purchase Development Rights Committee merged.  The Agricultural/PDR Committee meet on an as-needed basis.

The Deputy County Administrator currently serves as the PDR program administrator, and the Planning and Zoning staff provides support.  Please contact Kathy Baker at 540-658-8686 or kbaker@co.stafford.va.us for more information.

Land Conservation Links

Please click here to view a list of land conservation links.