Land Use Controls and Regulations Flashcards

Which government power allows a local municipality to regulate land use through zoning ordinances?

Answer: Police power

Police power gives government the authority to enact zoning laws and regulations to protect public health, safety, and welfare.

What is a variance in the context of zoning law?

Answer: An exception to a zoning requirement granted to a specific property

A variance is an official exception granted to a property owner to deviate from specific zoning requirements.

What term describes a use of land that was legally established but does not conform to current zoning requirements?

Answer: Nonconforming use

A nonconforming use is a legally existing land use that predates and does not comply with current zoning regulations.

Which document is typically used to legally subdivide land in California?

Answer: Subdivision map

A subdivision map (tract or parcel map) is recorded with the county to legally divide land into separate parcels.

A conditional use permit (CUP) allows:

Answer: Specific uses that require review due to their potential impact

A CUP allows uses that may be compatible with a zone but need case-by-case review to manage potential impacts.

Which California environmental law requires an environmental impact report (EIR) for significant government-approved projects?

Answer: CEQA

The California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) requires assessment of environmental impacts before approving significant projects.