CPP Land Use & Zoning 1

Question 1

What is a 'Conditional Use Permit' (CUP) in local zoning law?

Accepted Answer

A permit allowing a use not ordinarily permitted in a zone, subject to specific conditions

Answer

A permit automatically granted when an application is submitted

Answer

A permit required for all new construction in a municipality

Answer

A temporary permit valid for 30 days

Question 2

What is the legal concept of 'nonconforming use' in zoning?

Accepted Answer

A lawfully established use that does not conform to current zoning regulations but is allowed to continue

Answer

Any use that violates zoning laws and is subject to immediate removal

Answer

A use that requires a variance to continue operating

Answer

A temporary use permitted for special events

Question 3

What is an 'area variance' (as opposed to a 'use variance') in zoning practice?

Accepted Answer

Relief from dimensional standards like setbacks, lot coverage, or height limits

Answer

Permission to use land for a purpose not allowed in the zone

Answer

An exception to stormwater regulations

Answer

A variance from building code requirements

Question 4

Which comprehensive planning document typically serves as the legal basis for a municipality's zoning ordinance?

Accepted Answer

General Plan (Comprehensive Plan or Master Plan)

Answer

State Environmental Quality Review Act findings

Answer

Capital Improvement Program

Answer

Stormwater Management Plan

Question 5

What is 'Euclidean zoning' and why is it named that?

Accepted Answer

Zoning that separates land uses into distinct districts; named after Euclid, Ohio, which defended its zoning ordinance before the U.S. Supreme Court

Answer

Zoning based on mathematical formulas for density; named after the mathematician Euclid

Answer

A European zoning model adopted in the U.S.

Answer

A zoning approach that allows all uses in every zone

Question 6

What is 'spot zoning' and why is it generally disfavored?

Accepted Answer

Rezoning a single parcel in a manner inconsistent with the surrounding area and the comprehensive plan, often for private benefit

Answer

Zoning that focuses on environmental protection in sensitive areas

Answer

A planning technique for infill development

Answer

A temporary zoning designation for pilot projects