Zonenplan

Zonenplan is a term used in German-speaking regions to refer to a map or map-like document that divides a locality into zones for planning, regulation, taxation, or transport fare purposes. In urban planning, a Zonenplan designates land-use zones (for example residential, commercial, industrial, mixed-use, agricultural, and special zones) and sets the rules that apply to each zone, such as permitted building types, density, height, and development design. It constitutes a key element of the broader land-use planning framework, often accompanying or forming part of the Flächennutzungsplan (land-use plan) or Bauleitplanung in Germany, or the Plan d'affectation in French-speaking contexts. The Zonenplan guides zoning decisions, infrastructure provision, and environmental protection, and is subject to public participation and legal review before adoption by a municipal or cantonal authority.

In the public transport context, Zonenplan refers to a fare-zone map that defines the geographic zones used to calculate ticket prices. Transit networks divide their service areas into zones; tickets are priced according to the number and type of zones traveled. These maps are regularly updated and available to the public by the operator.

Creation and update: Zonenpläne are produced by municipal or cantonal planning departments or transit authorities; they rely on geographic information systems and are updated to reflect urban development, transportation needs, or policy changes. Access: They are typically published online and at planning offices. See also: urban planning, zoning, land-use planning, transportation zoning.