Zonering

Zonering, or zoning, is the planning practice of dividing land into zones with specific permitted uses and development standards to guide land use and growth. It aims to separate incompatible activities, manage urban expansion, protect health and safety, conserve environmental resources, and shape neighborhood character.

A zoning system typically consists of a zoning map and a set of zoning codes. Zones specify permitted uses, such as residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, or mixed-use, and may include overlays for constraints like flood risk, environmental protection, or heritage preservation. Development standards control density, building height, setbacks, lot coverage, parking, signage, and design requirements.

Implementation and process: local governments adopt or amend zones through a zoning plan or ordinance, often following public consultation. Property owners may apply for rezoning or variances, with decisions subject to review and possible appeals. Enforcement and compliance monitoring ensure that development adheres to the defined rules.

Types and approaches: Common categories include residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, and mixed-use zones. Overlay zones and form-based codes may govern design and form more than land use. Some systems use incentives, transfer of development rights, or upzoning to encourage housing supply and urban renewal.

History and critique: Zoning emerged in the early 20th century to promote health, safety, and orderly growth in expanding cities. It significantly influences land values, housing supply, and neighborhood character. Critiques point to potential rigidity, segregation, and affordability impacts, prompting reforms such as more flexible zoning, form-based codes, or inclusionary zoning.

In the Netherlands, zonering is implemented through the bestemmingsplan, which combines maps of zones with detailed rules for land use and development.