Real Estate Land Use & Zoning

Question 1

What government power provides the legal basis for zoning regulations?

Accepted Answer

Police power

Answer

Eminent domain

Answer

Escheat

Answer

Taxation power

Question 2

A property that legally existed before a zoning ordinance was enacted but does not conform to the new zoning rules is called a:

Accepted Answer

Nonconforming use

Answer

Variance use

Answer

Conditional use

Answer

Special use

Question 3

A property owner requests permission to build a fence 2 feet from the property line instead of the required 5-foot setback. What must they apply for?

Accepted Answer

A variance

Answer

A rezoning

Answer

A conditional use permit

Answer

An easement

Question 4

A minimum required distance between a structure and the property line is known as a:

Accepted Answer

Setback

Answer

Buffer zone

Answer

Easement

Answer

Encroachment

Question 5

Spot zoning is generally considered illegal because it:

Accepted Answer

Singles out one parcel for treatment inconsistent with surrounding zoning

Answer

Applies uniform standards across a large area

Answer

Requires a public hearing before approval

Answer

Increases property values in a neighborhood

Question 6

Which type of zoning allows for a mix of residential and commercial uses in a coordinated development with flexible internal standards?

Accepted Answer

Planned Unit Development (PUD)

Answer

Agricultural zoning

Answer

Euclidean zoning

Answer

Industrial zoning

Question 7

A buffer zone in zoning is primarily used to:

Accepted Answer

Separate incompatible land uses such as industrial and residential areas

Answer

Increase property tax revenue for municipalities

Answer

Define the boundaries of a historic district

Answer

Establish the maximum density for residential development