Zoning Regulations Overview
An interactive guide to understanding US zoning.
What is Zoning?
Zoning is a method of urban planning in which a municipality or other tier of government divides land into areas called zones, each of which has a set of regulations for new development that differs from other zones. These regulations dictate the types of buildings, their uses (e.g., residential, commercial, industrial), and physical characteristics like height, lot coverage, and setbacks from property lines.
The primary purpose of zoning is to segregate uses that are thought to be incompatible. For example, zoning prevents a new factory from being built in a residential neighborhood. By doing so, it aims to protect public health, safety, and welfare, while also preserving property values and promoting orderly development.
Key Takeaway: Zoning acts as a blueprint for how a community grows, ensuring that development is organized, predictable, and beneficial for its residents.
Key Zoning Terminology
Setback
The minimum distance a building or other structure must be from a property line, street, or other feature. Setbacks create space for light, air, and access.
Floor Area Ratio (FAR)
The ratio of a building's total floor area to the size of the piece of land upon which it is built. An FAR of 2.0 means a developer can build twice the lot area in floor space.
Lot Coverage
The percentage of a lot that is covered by buildings and other impervious surfaces. This regulation helps manage stormwater runoff and preserve open space.
Use Group
A category of land uses that are permitted within a specific zoning district, such as residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural.
Common Zone Types in the USA
Residential (R-1, R-2, etc.)
Primarily for housing. R-1 is typically for single-family homes, while R-2 allows for duplexes, and higher numbers (R-3, R-4) permit multi-family apartments and condos.
Commercial (C-1, C-2, etc.)
For businesses like retail stores, offices, and restaurants. C-1 might be for small neighborhood shops, while C-3 could be for large regional shopping centers.
Industrial (I-1, I-2, etc.)
Designated for manufacturing, warehousing, and other industrial activities. Light industrial (I-1) is for cleaner operations, while heavy industrial (I-2) allows for more intensive uses.
Find Your Zone (Example)
Enter a US address to get a sample zoning report. This is a simulation for demonstration purposes.