Purpose
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. Eligibility requirements and additional information is found in Stafford County Code, Chapter 22A. 

Purchase of Development Rights (PDR) Application Round for 2013
Stafford County is now accepting applications for the PDR program. The deadline for applications is April 12, 2013. A public informational meeting will be held on Wednesday, February 20, 2013 in the Board of Supervisors Chambers, 1300 Courthouse Road.

Please contact Kathy Baker, PDR Administrator, at (540) 658-8668, for more information.

Agricultural / Purchase Development Rights Committee
The Board of Supervisors established the Purchase of Development Rights Committee to implement the Purchase of Development Rights Program in February 2007 to work 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 the fourth Monday of each month at 7:00 PM in the County Administrator’s Conference Room. The Planning and Zoning staff provides support. Contact Kathy Baker, PDR Administrator, at (540) 658-8668 for more information.