New Orleans Comprehensive Zoning Ordinance

Printed: 3/28/2024 7:40:15 PM

7.1 Purpose Statements

7.1.A Purpose of the OS-N Neighborhood Open Space District   

The purpose of the OS-N Neighborhood Open Space District is to provide a classification for parks located within neighborhoods that serve as recreation areas for residents in the local area. Neighborhood parks are smaller in scale than regional parks and more limited in the types of recreational uses allowed. The OS-N District is also intended to provide for the preservation of natural environmental features and wildlife habitats at certain locations surrounded by developed neighborhoods, and to provide protection for the City’s historic cemeteries.  

7.1.B Purpose of the OS-G Greenway Open Space District   

The purpose of the OS-G Greenway Open Space District is to provide a classification for open space greenways that provide a connection between neighborhoods and public amenities such as cultural facilities and larger parks. The physical form of a greenway is typically more linear in nature and accommodates additional modes of transportation such as pedestrian trails and bike paths. 

7.1.C Purpose of the OS-R Regional Open Space District   

The purpose of the OS-R Regional Open Space District is to provide a classification for large parks that draw visitors from the entire region. A regional park includes a variety of recreational areas and uses, but also includes certain ancillary commercial activities such as cultural facilities, performance venues, and restaurants. The OS-R District also includes waterfront recreational activities, such as beaches and public piers. 

7.1.D Purpose of the NA Natural Areas District   

The purpose of the NA Natural Areas District is to protect and preserve existing natural areas such as wetlands and coastal areas of marsh, estuary or waterway. Very limited development is allowed, and shall be compatible with and cause little impact to these areas. The intent of the NA District is to provide stormwater protection and reduce flooding possibilities due to abnormal tides in Lake Pontchartrain, Lake Borgne, and the various tidal waterways in and adjacent to Orleans Parish.

7.1.E Purpose of the GPD General Planned Development District   

The purpose of the GPD General Planned Development District is to provide flexibility in the site design and development of land in order to promote its most environmentally sensitive use and to preserve the natural and scenic qualities of wetlands and other natural land features. The GPD District is intended to provide protection for environmentally sensitive areas and encourage development that avoids or minimizes negative impacts and allows for innovative development techniques and flexibility in the development of the site. 

7.1.F Purpose of the OS-CBD Central Business Open Space District   

The purpose of the OS-CBD Central Business Open Space District is to provide a classification for large open space parks in the Central Business Districts that provide a connection between neighborhoods and public amenities that draw in residents from across the City as well as visitors of New Orleans.  The OS-CBD District is intended to provide for both recreational uses and certain ancillary low-impact entertainment, commercial, and wellness programming.

Adopted by Ord.28275 MCS 12-19-19, ZD 81/19

7.1.G Purpose of the OS-AR Armstrong Regional Park District   

The purpose of the OS-AR Armstrong Regional Park District is to provide a classification to establish Louis Armstrong Park in the City’s Historic Core as a dedicated cultural resource, locale for community gathering, and conduit for retention of African Culture and spiritual practice. The OS-AR park district includes a majority of passive open space, parks, and history supporting and cultural uses in historic structures.

Adopted by Ord 29094 MCS, 6-23-22, ZD 11/22