URPN 302 Chapter 7: Inserting Flexibility in Zoning

Vocabulary flashcards covering the various tools and concepts used to insert flexibility into zoning regulations from Chapter 7 of URPN 302.

Conventional Zoning

A predictable zoning system that can struggle with mixed-use projects, large sites, redevelopment, changing conditions, and context-specific design.

Incentive Zoning

A zoning tool that offers added development rights or relaxed standards in exchange for a public benefit.

Rezoning

A legislative and policy-based process that changes the zoning classification or map district.

Performance Zoning

A zoning method that regulates measurable impacts rather than focusing only on land-use categories.

Area Variance

Limited relief from a dimensional standard such as setback, height, lot coverage, parking, or lot width, while the district and use usually stay the same.

Interim Zoning

A temporary regulation of land use applied while permanent rules are developed.

Moratorium

A temporary pause on specified development.

Use Variance

Relief from a prohibited use, usually requiring hardship tied to the land (not self-created), minimum relief, and no harm to the public interest.

Overlay Zoning

A tool that adds another layer of rules on top of existing base zoning without changing the underlying district.

Special Use Permit

Approval for a use already listed in the ordinance, allowed only after review with conditions that can address traffic, noise, hours, buffering, design, drainage, safety, and compatibility.

Form-based Code

A regulatory approach that emphasizes physical form and the public realm, including frontage, placement, height, massing, blocks, streets, and public space.

Floating Zone

A district that exists in the ordinance before it is mapped and later 'lands' on a qualifying site after approval.

Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND)

Uses zoning and design standards to create a walkable traditional neighborhood pattern.

PUD (Planned Unit Development)

Customizes standards for a unified, master-planned project, which may mix housing, open space, recreation, and commercial uses.

Conditional Zoning

Rezoning approval that is tied to specific conditions addressing site or community impacts.