Zoning and Land Use

1 Municipal Zoning This lesson looks at municipal zoning in the United States, which is a complex and extensive system of laws that regulates land use within a community. The purpose of these laws, also known as zoning ordinances, is to ensure that different types of land use, such as residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural, … Read more

1 Exclusionary Zoning This lesson delves into the history of exclusionary zoning in the United States, which has resulted in racial and economic segregation in various urban areas. It explores the practice of using zoning laws to restrict affordable housing, apartments, and public services in certain areas, with minimum lot sizes being a common requirement. … Read more

1 Important Definitions   Accessory use/accessory dwelling unit An accessory use is a structure or improvement that enhances or is required by the primary use of the lot. Accessory uses do not have to follow the same rules as structures permitted under conventional zoning, since they are not the primary purpose of the lot, and … Read more

1 Comprehensive Planning Comprehensive planning in the United States is a process that involves the development of a long-term vision for a community or region. This process typically involves a wide range of stakeholders, including government officials, community leaders, and residents. The goal of comprehensive planning is to create a roadmap for the future that … Read more