Unit 20: Land-Use Controls and Property Development

Land Use Controls

Public and private limitations on how land can be used, including ownership rights.

Comprehensive Plan

A master plan that outlines goals for a municipality's future development, including land use and community needs.

Zoning Ordinances

Local laws that regulate land use, including permitted uses, lot sizes, and building types.

Police Power

The inherent authority of states to create regulations to protect public health, safety, and welfare.

Bulk Zoning

Zoning that controls density and avoids overcrowding in land use.

Variance

A permanent exception to the zoning ordinance allowing a different use of property than is specified.

Certificate of Occupancy

A document that certifies a building's compliance with building codes and permits its occupancy.

Restrictive Covenants

Limitations on property use imposed by previous owners that bind future property owners.

Interstate Land Sales Full Disclosure Act

Federal law regulating the sale of unimproved lots across state lines to prevent fraud.

Density Zoning

Ordinances that restrict the maximum number of housing units allowed per acre.