Urban Growth Boundaries

Guide outlining how to effectively plan for and implement urban growth boundaries.

Map of UGB—with original and expanded boundaries—in Adams County (PA).

A comprehensive review of the urban growth boundary tool, including evaluations of different urban containment techniques, a study of their prevalence in the United States, and case studies.

This report examines urban growth boundaries as a technique for concentrating growth in development areas and discouraging it elsewhere. It explains how boundaries are used in Maryland and in other states, outlines the elements that must be present for a growth boundary to be successful, and presents a step-by-step procedure for creating and enacting a boundary.

Amendment to the township's comprehensive plan that includes an expansion of its urban growth boundary.

Explains urban growth boundaries, answers common questions, and includes a model ordinance component.

Urban growth boundaries are used to demarcate where government intends to encourage and discourage land development. This guide provides links to resources about urban growth boundaries, as well as examples from Pennsylvania municipalities. (Print version of ConservationTools.org guide)

Zoning map for West Manchester Township (York County, Pennsylvania) that includes various zoning districts and an urban growth boundary.

Map of designated growth areas and future growth areas in Williamsport, PA. Part of Lycoming County's comprehensive plan.