The 1999 Comprehensive Plan Update recommended that TDR be used as one of the tools to reduce density on farmland parcels, environmentally sensitive lands, and scenic vistas." On October 23,2001 chapter 244 was passed into law, creating sending areas in the entirety of the Agricultural Overlay District and the Aquifer Overlay District, and allowing TDR credits to be received within these districts in "appropriate hamlet receiving areas" and outside of these districts.
By allowing any undeveloped parcel in the Agricultural Overlay District to sell or send away its development rights, t his program discourages non-farm development of farmland and provides farmland owners with liquid capital that can be used to enhance farm viability.
For full details on the specifics of this program, consult with Planning Staff as well as Southampton Town Code 330-244.