CMO Land Use Planning & Zoning 2

Question 1

What is the primary function of a Board of Zoning Appeals (BZA)?

Accepted Answer

To hear appeals of zoning administrator decisions and grant variances or special exceptions

Answer

To adopt new zoning ordinances and map amendments

Answer

To review subdivisions and site plans for consistency with the comprehensive plan

Answer

To enforce code violations and issue citations

Question 2

A 'setback' requirement in a zoning ordinance specifies:

Accepted Answer

The minimum distance a structure must be located from property lines, roads, or other features

Answer

The maximum number of units allowed per acre

Answer

The percentage of a lot that must remain unpaved

Answer

The maximum building height in a zoning district

Question 3

Eminent domain allows a government to take private property for public use. Which constitutional provision requires just compensation for such takings?

Accepted Answer

Fifth Amendment's Takings Clause

Answer

First Amendment

Answer

Fourth Amendment

Answer

Fourteenth Amendment's Equal Protection Clause

Question 4

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

Accepted Answer

Allows flexible mixing of land uses and site design in exchange for overall project quality and open space

Answer

Prohibits any residential use within commercial zones

Answer

Requires state approval before any development may occur

Answer

Applies only to properties of five acres or less

Question 5

An environmental impact assessment (EIA) in the land use context is used to:

Accepted Answer

Identify, evaluate, and mitigate potential environmental effects of a proposed development or policy

Answer

Calculate property tax assessments for new developments

Answer

Grant final zoning approval for large projects

Answer

Determine the market value of land before rezoning

Question 6

Which of the following best describes a 'subdivision plat'?

Accepted Answer

A formal map dividing land into lots, blocks, streets, and easements that must be reviewed and recorded

Answer

A detailed site plan showing building footprints and landscaping

Answer

An environmental study required before commercial development

Answer

A document listing all conditional approvals for a rezoning

Question 7

A municipality places a temporary halt on accepting or processing development applications while it updates its land use regulations. This is known as a:

Accepted Answer

Development moratorium

Answer

Building moratorium

Answer

Zoning freeze

Answer

Planning injunction