CLA Land Use Regulations & Zoning Law

Question 1

A landscape architect is designing a mixed-use development near a wetland. Which federal law primarily governs activities that may affect navigable waters and adjacent wetlands?

Accepted Answer

Clean Water Act Section 404

Answer

National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA)

Answer

Endangered Species Act (ESA)

Answer

Resource Conservation and Recovery Act (RCRA)

Question 2

A setback requirement in a zoning ordinance specifies that no structure shall be built within 25 feet of a property line. This type of regulation is best described as a:

Accepted Answer

Bulk regulation

Answer

Density restriction

Answer

Use restriction

Answer

Subdivision control

Question 3

When a proposed project cannot meet current zoning standards due to unique physical conditions of the property, the property owner may apply for a:

Accepted Answer

Variance

Answer

Special use permit

Answer

Rezoning

Answer

Conditional use permit

Question 4

Under NEPA, which document is required for federal actions that significantly affect the quality of the human environment?

Accepted Answer

Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)

Answer

Environmental Assessment (EA)

Answer

Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI)

Answer

Categorical Exclusion (CE)

Question 5

A landowner's right to develop property is most directly limited by which legal principle underlying zoning law?

Accepted Answer

Police power

Answer

Eminent domain

Answer

Riparian rights

Answer

Adverse possession

Question 6

A Planned Unit Development (PUD) differs from conventional zoning primarily because it:

Accepted Answer

Allows flexible design standards in exchange for overall site planning review

Answer

Prohibits mixed land uses on a single parcel

Answer

Requires all lots to conform to standard setback and lot coverage rules

Answer

Is only applicable to residential land uses

Question 7

Which term describes the situation where a previously lawful non-conforming use may continue after a zoning change but cannot be expanded?

Accepted Answer

Grandfathering

Answer

Spot zoning

Answer

Downzoning

Answer

Conditional use