What is the purpose of zoning?

The purpose of zoning primarily revolves around the division of a city or county into districts to regulate land use and development. This is essential for urban planning, as it helps organize how land can be used in various areas, ensuring that residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural spaces are appropriately separated and managed. By establishing districts, zoning laws can create a framework that guides how landowners can develop or utilize their properties, thereby promoting orderly growth and ensuring that incompatible land uses are kept apart.

For example, a residential zoning district would restrict the development of commercial enterprises in that area, ensuring that neighborhoods remain safe and pleasant for residents. Conversely, commercial zoning would allow for businesses to operate in designated areas, contributing to the local economy without encroaching on residential properties. Thus, the critical function of zoning in urban planning is to delineate these areas effectively, which aligns with the answer provided.