Landzones

**Landzones**

Landzones refer to designated areas within a jurisdiction, often used in maritime, coastal, or territorial governance to manage land and water resources. These zones are typically established to regulate activities such as navigation, fishing, conservation, and development. The concept varies by region but often follows international standards set by organizations like the International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) or the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).

In many countries, landzones are defined by legal frameworks that outline boundaries, usage rights, and restrictions. For example, a territorial sea extends up to 12 nautical miles from the baseline of a coastal state, granting exclusive jurisdiction over maritime activities within this zone. Beyond this, the contiguous zone extends to 24 nautical miles, allowing enforcement of customs, fiscal, and immigration laws. Further out, the exclusive economic zone (EEZ) extends to 200 nautical miles, where the state has rights to explore and exploit natural resources.

Coastal landzones may also include protected areas like marine reserves or national parks, established to preserve biodiversity and ecological integrity. These zones often require permits for activities such as drilling, dredging, or construction. Urban landzones, meanwhile, are used to manage land use planning, zoning laws, and development regulations within cities.

The management of landzones can involve collaboration between government agencies, local communities, and environmental groups to balance economic, social, and ecological needs. Variations in legal definitions and enforcement practices exist globally, reflecting differences in national policies and international agreements.