Protecting open spaces and providing parks and green space for the residents of the City of Lancaster is an important part of planning.  The City of Lancaster has developed a Public Sites and Open Space policy found in Lancaster Codified Ordinance 1109.12.  Under this requirement, developers of houses, apartments or other residential units are required to set aside open spaces or pay a fair market value fee.  The amount of land required is based on a formula based on the population of the development.  Options for the developer are identify during the platting process for subdivisions or during the plan review for individual projects.  Public sites and open space decisions are approved by both the Lancaster City Planning Commission and the Parks Board.

The current Fair Mark Price is $32,000 per acre effective January 28, 2016.