SVBP 2012 as the basis
Sint Maarten’s regulations are based on the Unified Comparable Zoning Designation Plans (SVBP 2012)used in the Netherlands. These plans set standards for the design and layout of zoning designations,including amendments and government zoning plans. The SVBP aims to create consistency and clarity across these plans. While Sint Maarten has adopted this methodology for its development plans,adjustments were made as needed to fit local conditions.

HILL SIDE POLICY
The hillside policy of Sint Maarten includes specific regulations for grade and slope, with the current area slope at about 45 degrees. The location is below 100 meters elevation, as per government requirements divided equally. The design of hillside houses, as illustrated in the accompanying picture, incorporates safety walls and features drainage systems to manage stormwater during heavy rains. In Sint Maarten,regulations dictate lower building density at greater elevations. In these zones, minimum lot sizes are specified, requiring larger plots as slopes become steeper. Additionally, the permitted building density decreases with elevation and slope angle. Specifically, a maximum of one building is allowed per lot, with a maximum surface area,
building height regulations differ based on slope and elevation. In lower-lying areas (Residential – 1),
land is relatively flat, whereas in ‘Residential – 2’ and ‘Residential – To be detailed,’ the terrain is more varied. To clarify maximum building height, a ‘building envelope’ is utilized. For example, parcels below the 50-meter elevation line can have a maximum height of 10 m, while those above are limited to 6.5 m.
This differentiation allows for taller buildings in flatter areas without disrupting the landscape significantly.
The choice between applying an immediate final zone (R-2) or a zone requiring further detailing depends on the desired level of control over land subdivision. Reasons for seeking more control through detailed planning include: