Types of land use in Costa Rica-Types of land use in Costa Rica

Costa Rica has the Land Use Zoning Regulation, which delimits areas for industry, commerce, and development, aiming to ensure a balance between economic progress and environmental conservation.

1.Mixed Residential Development Land Use

Characteristics: Integrates housing, commercial spaces, and recreational areas.
Permitted Uses: Housing, commercial spaces, and recreational areas to promote balanced development.
Restrictions: Specific proportions for residential and commercial areas, with the requirement to include green spaces.
Prohibited Uses: Industrial activities incompatible with residential environments are forbidden.

2.Land Use in Commercial Zones

Characteristics: Designed for the exchange of goods and services, these areas foster dynamic commercial environments.
Permitted Uses: Include commercial establishments, offices, and services related to commerce.
Restrictions: Limitations on building height and specific parking requirements apply.
Prohibited Uses: Intensive industrial activities are not acceptable in these zones.

3. Technological Development

Characteristics: Reserved for technological advancement, innovation, and collaboration within the sector.
Permitted Uses: Technology companies, research centers, and spaces for innovation.
Restrictions: Require advanced telecommunications infrastructure and specific urban design.
Prohibited Uses: Activities unrelated to technology are not allowed.

4.Land Use in Industrial Zones

Characteristics: Encompassing everything from light manufacturing to more intensive processes.
Permitted Uses: Production and processing of goods, industrial logistics, and manufacturing.
Restrictions: Environmental standards and industrial safety requirements are imperative
Prohibited Uses: Residential activities and retail businesses are incompatible in this environment.

Before making a commercial investment, it is crucial to carefully review land use types. Understanding the regulations and restrictions in each area not only ensures legal compliance, but also allows for informed decisions.

A successful investment not only considers the economic potential, but also the regulatory environment to ensure strong and sustainable growth in the market.

Lumberth Chacón , NATIVU Comercial & Desarrollo

Frequently Asked Questions

What happens if a river, spring, or stream passes through my property in Costa Rica?

If a river, spring, or stream runs through your property, it is likely subject to special regulations to protect water resources and prevent environmental impacts. It is important to know and comply with local regulations related to these natural features, as it could affect the feasibility of certain projects or require specific measures to preserve the health of the ecosystem.

What does coverage mean?

“Coverage” in real estate terms refers to the horizontal projection of a structure or the area of land covered by such structure. The maximum coverage sets the highest percentage possible to achieve, thus the possible use of the space may vary.

What are withdrawals in Costa Rica and how much can they affect the area of my property?

“withdrawals” generally refer to areas designated by local regulations where development is prohibited or limited. These can be established to preserve green spaces, guarantee security against natural phenomena or protect bodies of water. The impact on the property area will depend on the specific restrictions established by local authorities.

If you are considering investing, or if you have specific questions, do not hesitate to contact our real estate advisors specialized in commercial properties in Costa Rica.

Explore investment opportunities in Costa Rica