Land Use Law

Through land use law, local governments control the development and conservation of the land and its natural resources. They enjoy legal authority delegated by their state legislatures, putting plenary power to affect land use in the hands of locally elected, appointed officials, and their constituents. These powers are used locally to foster economic development and promote jobs, achieve sustainable development, preserve healthy eco-systems, and, increasingly, to mitigate and adapt to climate change. Students study cases and statutes from many states, while learning the New York land use system in depth. The course includes significant materials from New Jersey and Connecticut. Students learn about fundamental property rights and study the seminal constitutional law cases that protect them. The course includes numerous practical exercises and pays close attention to the practical issues involved in representing clients before municipal bodies and courts.