Title: Zoning Definition
Headings: Zoning
Zoning
What Is Zoning?
Key Takeaways
How Zoning Works
Economic Theory of Zoning
Critiques of Zoning Law
Special Considerations

Content: How Zoning Works
Zoning outlines what types of developmental and operational use of land is allowed on a given tract. Municipalities tend to partition districts and neighborhoods according to a master plan. This may be done to promote economic development, control the flow of traffic, manage noise levels, reserve living space for residents, and protect certain resources. Examples of zoning classifications include industrial, light industrial, commercial, light commercial, agricultural, single-family residential, multi-unit residential, and schools. Local government might ban the use of residential property for business purposes to keep commercial activity confined to specific parts of town. Such zoning can lead to conflicts if residents dispute the designated usage. Zoning laws can also regulate the details of construction in specific neighborhoods. For example, zoning can limit the maximum height of buildings in a given area regardless of the type of construction allowed. High-rise residences or offices could be banned on particular parcels through zoning regardless of whether the buildings otherwise comply with the laws. The presence of zoning restrictions can influence prices when purchasing a piece of property.