The clearing of a property development lot estimated to be worth $300 million has sparked hot debate among South Africa’s indigenous people, according to The New York Times. The 37-acre land at the convergence of two rivers is believed to sit in a region where South Africa’s First Nations people first battled with colonial invaders. Tauriq Jenkins, a leader of two dozen Indigenous groups, is against the development. Jenkins said, “A concrete building of Amazon’s headquarters on this land is not only egregious but also obscene.”
However, not all indigenous people oppose the construction of Amazon headquarters. According to chief Zenzile Khoisan, he sees victory for his community when he looks at the construction. The split among the leaders has led to a dispute that might affect the ongoing property development. Investing in property development is lucrative, but the process can be stressful. To develop land successfully, you must factor in several things, including cultural values and service tax VAT for under-construction properties. Below are other considerations when developing land.
Zoning Codes
Before constructing any structure, you need to check the site’s zonal codes. Ideally, zoning codes specify how developers can use land in a specific region. For example, your area’s zonal laws might allow the construction of commercial properties and condos, but limit developers from building single-family and multi-family units. Remember, non-compliance with zoning regulations often results in hefty penalties and fines. With this in mind, invest time to learn everything about zoning laws in your area and apply for permits with the local authorities.
Landscaping Requirements
Some states have landscaping requirements that developers must meet to ensure that their projects are successful. For instance, if there are trees on your site, make sure you follow mitigation advice offered by the local authorities. Also, check if there are open space requirements, screening requirements, landscape setback, and maximum impervious coverage requirements.
Since landscaping involves a lot of digging, excavation, and installation of underground utilities, you’ll need heavy equipment. Heavy equipment used in landscaping includes backhoe loaders, excavators, motor graders, bulldozers, and skid steer loaders. Because of their simple-to-use elements, skid steer loaders are ideal for finishing activities during landscaping. However, to make the most of skid steer tractors, you must invest in high-quality rubber tracks. According to SkidHeaven.com, without reliable skid steer tracks that guarantee excellent traction, your productivity reduces at a dramatic rate. As a result, you’ll be spending a lot of money on replacements.
Political And Public Considerations
In addition to understanding zoning laws, make sure community members are engaged in your project. Ask yourself if your project’s public and private benefits have been socialized. Moreover, ensure you’re working with the locals to bring your development plans into a reality. Doing so eliminates public opposition to your project. Successful developers also recommend investigating land ownership and rights granted to First Nations or Natives in the location you want to start your project. The last thing you want is to get into a conflict with the local community.
Property development is an excellent way to create wealth, but it can be challenging, especially when local communities oppose your project. To avoid setbacks on your development plans, take time to understand your site’s zoning laws. Also, include and engage local communities in your project, find out if there are any land claim cases on the land you wish to develop, and follow landscaping requirements.