Land Preservation
Much of the land in Orient is protected from development thanks to the sale or donation of development rights or easements. Other protected areas are State, County and local parklands and subdivision open spaces. As of 2016, there were 772 homes in Orient, 175 individual building sites and a calculated yield of 163 additional potential building sites on subdividable unprotected land. In the town of Southold, any new subdivision over 7 acres must preserve 60% open space as a “Standard Subdivision”. “Conservation Subdivisions” protect either 75% or 80% open space. The open space requirements are met through clustering new homes on smaller lots. There are several pending large subdivision proposals in Orient. Here are links to the Southold Town Planning Department files on these proposed subdivisions:
Conservation Subdivisions:
Standard Subdivisions:
Other Resources
- Conservation Options from Peconic Land Trust https://peconiclandtrust.org/our-work/conservation/conservation-options
- Map of Preserved Land in Southold: https://tos.maps.arcgis.com
Protected Lands in Orient

Recent Happenings

On September 29, 2026 at 6pm, the Town is hosting a public input session on these proposed code changes in the Town Hall Meeting Room.
On September 29, 2026 at 6pm, the Town is hosting a public input session on proposed code changes in the Town Hall Meeting Room. relating to our Affordable Housing efforts. This is an opportunity for the public to hear about the positive steps the town is taking and to voice their opinions and support. Please consider attending.

Our Housing Crisis: Local Voices
A panel discussion with a parent, educator, firefighter, healthcare professional and small business owner followed by a Q and A
Monday August 31 from 5:00 – 6:30 pm at CAST 53930 Main Road, Southold, NY 11971. Residents who struggle with housing options on the North Fork and the impact this has on families, schools, services and businesses..

Ticks & Tick-Borne Diseases Forum
Learn About Alpha-Gal Syndrome, Ticks and tick-borne diseases, How to prevent tick bites, How to reduce ticks in your yard, Deer population

