DOWNZONING Meaning and
Definition
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Downzoning is a land-use planning term that refers to the act of rezoning a specific area or parcel of land to a lower-density or more restrictive use. It involves changing the zoning designation of a particular area to limit the types of developments or activities that can take place there. This process is typically carried out by local governments or planning commissions to control growth, preserve the character or aesthetics of a neighborhood, protect natural resources, or address concerns related to overdevelopment.
When an area is downzoned, the allowable uses of the land often become more limited. For example, a residential area that was previously zoned for high-density housing may be downzoned to allow only single-family homes or even restricted to agricultural use. Commercial areas may also be downzoned to permit only certain types of businesses or impose stricter regulations on building size or height.
Downzoning aims to guide development in a way that aligns with the vision and goals outlined in the community's comprehensive plan. It can be used as a tool to manage growth, prevent urban sprawl, maintain open spaces, protect environmentally sensitive areas, or preserve the historic character of a neighborhood.
While downzoning can help achieve desired outcomes, it can also be a contentious issue. Property owners may perceive downzoning as a restriction on their rights or a devaluation of their property, while others may view it as necessary for maintaining the quality and character of a community.
Common Misspellings for DOWNZONING
- sownzoning
- xownzoning
- cownzoning
- fownzoning
- rownzoning
- eownzoning
- diwnzoning
- dkwnzoning
- dlwnzoning
- dpwnzoning
- d0wnzoning
- d9wnzoning
- doqnzoning
- doanzoning
- dosnzoning
- doenzoning
- do3nzoning
- do2nzoning
- dowbzoning
- dowmzoning
Etymology of DOWNZONING
The word "downzoning" is a combination of the prefixes "down-" and "zoning". The prefix "down-" generally indicates a lowering, reduction, or movement in a descending direction. "Zoning" refers to the division of an area into specific zones or districts with particular regulations or restrictions for land use.
Therefore, "downzoning" is the process of reducing the allowable land use, density, or development potential of an area. It is often implemented to preserve open space, limit urban sprawl, or protect the character of a neighborhood or community.
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