zoning

noun

zon·​ing ˈzō-niŋ 

: the act or process of partitioning a city, town, or borough into zones reserved for different purposes (such as residence or business)

also : the set of ordinances by which such zones are established and regulated

voted to change the town's zoning

zoning laws

Examples of zoning in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web

The land was already zoned for buildings as tall as eight stories in places, according to city planning staff, but the specialty zoning that the council unanimously signed off on Monday allows for buildings that are much taller in exchange for the inclusion of more affordable housing on site. —Joe Rubino, The Denver Post, 21 Oct. 2024

Sarah and Cleo discover that the government is changing zoning laws, which affects the Pogues’ land and could force them out of their home and business. —Jordana Comiter, People.com, 16 Oct. 2024

At the state level, more tools must be given to cities such as inclusionary zoning as just one example. —Taylor Seely, The Arizona Republic, 11 Oct. 2024

Local governments can further support these efforts by offering tax incentives, zoning benefits, and streamlined permitting processes to developers focused on affordable housing. —Andy J. Semotiuk, Forbes, 8 Oct. 2024

Word History

First Known Use

1912, in the meaning defined above

Legal Definition

zoning

noun

zon·​ing

: municipal or county regulation of land use effected through the creation and enforcement of zones under local law