Patterns for Westchester is the county's long-range land-use policy framework guiding local comprehensive plans toward centers-and-greenways development, mirroring specific-plan concepts used elsewhere but implemented through municipal master plans.
Westchester County does not directly zone land; that authority rests with the 6 cities, 19 towns, and 20 villages. Patterns for Westchester serves as the county's policy guidance, encouraging compact mixed-use centers along the Metro-North corridor, preservation of greenways and reservoir watersheds, and TOD around stations. Municipal comprehensive plans must consider county policy under General Municipal Law referrals when projects affect inter-municipal interests. The county Planning Board reviews referrals and offers nonbinding recommendations on significant projects.
Patterns for Westchester is advisory and carries no fines. Local comprehensive-plan or zoning violations are enforced by each city or village through standard zoning-code penalties.
See how Yonkers's specific plans overview rules stack up against other locations.
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