Planning and Zoning Overview
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Questions and Answers

What is primarily emphasized in urban planning in terms of community benefits?

  • Monofunctional areas
  • Affordable housing (correct)
  • Car dependency
  • Low-density development

    • What does sprawl refer to in the context of urban planning?

  • Low-density, car-dependent communities (correct)
  • High-density, walkable areas
  • Green space integration
  • Planned community developments

    • Which of the following is NOT a benefit of urban planning?

  • Increased public transportation
  • Provision of sidewalks
  • Accessibility to recreational areas
  • Expansion of open land (correct)

    • How does sprawl negatively impact the environment?

    <p>By increasing individual car usage</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What was highlighted in Jane Jacobs's quote regarding cities?

    <p>They can provide for everyone when inclusive participation occurs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of a planning department or commission?

    <p>To create and administer a master plan</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Who can request the preparation and presentation of a zoning ordinance?

    <p>An elected official</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which document empowers municipalities to manage their own planning and zoning?

    <p>The Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common task performed by planning commissions?

    <p>Preparing environmental studies</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a master plan also known as?

    <p>A comprehensive plan</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key aspect of the zoning board of appeals?

    <p>To review requests for variances</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How long is the term for members of a planning commission?

    <p>Four years</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does zoning typically determine for a property?

    <p>Permitted uses and development options</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does 'upzoning' typically allow in an area?

    <p>Taller buildings</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary role of city councils and local zoning commissions?

    <p>To create and enforce zoning regulations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor is NOT typically determined by zoning regulations?

    <p>Market value of properties</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What purpose does a master plan serve in the community?

    <p>To outline the community's long-term priorities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the term 'density' refer to in zoning?

    <p>Proportion of land used for residential purposes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is an example of downzoning?

    <p>Requiring larger lot sizes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is meant by 'setback' in zoning regulations?

    <p>Minimum distance of a building from the street</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a potential consequence of inconsistent zoning regulations?

    <p>Discriminatory housing situations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which zoning classification is primarily for commercial activities?

    <p>Commercial</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one of the main environmental concerns included in zoning regulations?

    <p>Wetland protections</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can air rights be utilized according to zoning laws?

    <p>They can be sold by residents in some places</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the impact of 'lot coverage' regulations?

    <p>Restricts the amount of structure on a given lot</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In terms of zoning, what does 'historic preservation' typically involve?

    <p>Protecting and regulating landmark sites</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of creating a master plan?

    <p>To balance social, economic, environmental, and aesthetic needs.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a component that must be included in a master plan?

    <p>A plan for universal income distribution.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What does the planning committee consider when evaluating growth patterns?

    <p>Current population distributions and optimal growth levels.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a possible optional element included in a master plan?

    <p>An energy conservation plan.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What should happen after a master plan is submitted for public comment?

    <p>Changes can be made according to feedback before a public hearing.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What are zoning laws primarily designed to do?

    <p>To outline where different land uses can occur and what structures can be built.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What defines as-of right zoning?

    <p>Development that falls within zoning standards and does not need additional approval.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is it suggested that zoning should be local?

    <p>Because local needs differ, making uniform zoning impractical.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which step is NOT part of the plan creation process?

    <p>Document stakeholder opinions on housing.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which zoning concept allows for density bonuses for including affordable housing in developments?

    <p>Incentive zoning</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following describes a current requirement for a county master plan?

    <p>It must identify land uses tied to natural resources and mineral utilization.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    When should a master plan be updated according to the guidelines?

    <p>Every 10 years.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is cluster zoning primarily designed to achieve?

    <p>Collectively determine density for an entire area promoting affordable housing.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which group primarily creates the draft of a master plan?

    <p>The planning commission or department.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characterizes the zoning system of Philadelphia compared to York, PA?

    <p>Philadelphia has significantly more complex zoning regulations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which zoning type might community members have concerns over larger developments being built without public hearings?

    <p>As-of right zoning</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must happen at least 45 days after submitting the plan to local bodies?

    <p>Public hearings must be conducted.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which zoning type specifically focuses on preserving historical or unique properties?

    <p>Historical or landmarked districts</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which item is NOT typically included in the implementation strategies of a master plan?

    <p>A financial plan for private investments.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What kind of land does conservation land typically refer to?

    <p>Land with special use rules to protect ecosystems.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens to the draft master plan after it is created by the planning commission?

    <p>It must be submitted for public comment before approval.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary benefit of incentive zoning?

    <p>It encourages public-private partnerships for community benefits.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a negative outcome of requiring builders to navigate complicated zoning processes?

    <p>It can raise the total cost of development.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which zone primarily includes agricultural activities?

    <p>Agricultural zones</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is an example of a recreational land use?

    <p>Public beaches or parks</p> Signup and view all the answers

    In which zoning concept is the density of multiple properties considered collectively?

    <p>Cluster zoning</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes mixed-use zones from other types of zoning?

    <p>They allow for a combination of different types of land uses in one area.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What defines open space in land use zoning?

    <p>Land designated for recreational and natural areas.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is generally true about legacy exceptions for nonconforming structures?

    <p>They allow existing structures to remain unchanged as long as they don't pose safety hazards.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens if a nonconforming structure is damaged to a majority extent?

    <p>It must be rebuilt according to the new zoning regulations.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can lead a legal nonconforming use to become illegal?

    <p>The use falling dormant for a specified period of time.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How does a variance differ from spot zoning?

    <p>A variance allows one property to break zoning laws without reclassification.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the purpose of a certificate of occupancy (CO)?

    <p>To confirm that a building meets health and safety standards before occupancy.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can occur if a building is found in violation of safety codes after a certificate of occupancy has been issued?

    <p>The owner may face fines or criminal charges.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of zoning officers in municipalities?

    <p>To enforce zoning ordinances without holding other municipal office.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Why is urban planning considered important?

    <p>It improves the livability, health, and equity of cities.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is spot zoning?

    <p>Changing the zoning of a small parcel of land for a use that differs from surrounding areas.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a common misconception about the grandfathering concept?

    <p>It is synonymous with legacy exception and does not have a negative connotation.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is required before a builder can commence construction?

    <p>A valid building permit issued by the local department.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens if a commercial nonconforming use changes ownership?

    <p>It is classified as an illegal nonconforming use.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a key differences between building codes and zoning laws?

    <p>Building codes ensure safety standards, while zoning laws dictate how land can be used.</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a primary benefit of cluster zoning?

    <p>Encourages walkable and bikeable communities</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following best describes the concept of NIMBY?

    <p>Opposition to developments perceived as undesirable in one’s local area</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What distinguishes floating zoning from traditional zoning methods?

    <p>Floating zoning requires a project proposal for activation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is a common application for cluster zoning?

    <p>Affordable housing developments</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is one disadvantage often associated with cluster-zoned subdivisions?

    <p>Increased traffic and noise concerns</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the main purpose of aesthetic zoning?

    <p>To ensure conformity to specific architectural styles</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following accurately describes a buffer zone?

    <p>A separate geographic space between different zones</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What can be an effect of cluster zoning on wildlife?

    <p>Provides uncultivated land for wildlife habitats</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which statement is true about historic districts?

    <p>They often require adherence to specific design guidelines</p> Signup and view all the answers

    How can floating zoning benefit a community?

    <p>Allows for tailored zoning changes based on proposal details</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What characteristic is NOT typical of cluster-zoned communities?

    <p>Larger individual lot sizes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following zoning types focuses on historical preservation?

    <p>Historic Districts</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which factor can contribute to NIMBY concerns in clusters?

    <p>Higher density leading to noise and traffic changes</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a significant advantage of cluster zoning for environmental purposes?

    <p>It provides space for water reclamation</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the primary purpose of a buffer zone between residential and industrial zones?

    <p>To create a pleasant transition for adjacent areas</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What authority does the Zoning Hearing Board have regarding variances?

    <p>To approve applications for variances under certain conditions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following is NOT a condition for granting a variance?

    <p>The hardship must be created by the applicant</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What constitutes a nonconforming use?

    <p>A use that existed before zoning laws changed</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which type of variance pertains to the physical characteristics of the land?

    <p>Area Variance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What must a property owner demonstrate to prove unnecessary hardship?

    <p>They cannot develop the property in strict conformity with zoning laws</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is a Special Exception in zoning regulations?

    <p>A conditional use outlined in the zoning ordinance</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What is the role of the Zoning Hearing Board in the zoning process?

    <p>To hear appeals and requests regarding zoning applications</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following situations typically would require an appeal to the Zoning Hearing Board?

    <p>Challenging a zoning officer's determination on a property development</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following could be considered a unique physical condition for a variance?

    <p>A lot with unusual dimensions or topographical features</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which of the following statements accurately describes a use variance?

    <p>It allows uses not specified in the zoning regulations</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Which outcome is essential for the granting of a variance?

    <p>The variance must not be created by the applicant's actions</p> Signup and view all the answers

    What happens when a property's zoning laws change and the current use is no longer allowed?

    <p>The use becomes a nonconforming use</p> Signup and view all the answers

    Study Notes

    Planning and Zoning Overview

    • Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC) empowers municipalities to manage land use.
    • Planning commissions/departments (3-9 members, 4-year terms) are responsible for creating master plans.
    • Master plans balance social/economic needs with environmental/aesthetic concerns. Zoning regulations are derived from the master plan.

    Master Plan Development

    • Research: Physical surveys, population data (age, socioeconomic), infrastructure assessment
    • Infrastructure needs: Roads, schools, utilities, green space, environmental considerations
    • Housing stock, transit, historic preservation: Current housing, transit, economic trends, preservation
    • Growth patterns: Population increase/decline, optimal growth levels, future infrastructure
    • Stakeholder/government input: Community involvement, local government influence
    • Essential plan components: Community development objectives, land use, housing, movement, facilities/utilities, natural/historic resources, water, interrelationships, implementation strategies, consistency with county plan and neighboring municipalities.

    Zoning Regulations

    • Zoning regulates how land is used (residential, commercial, industrial, etc.), minimum lot size, maximum building height, allowed structures, setbacks, density, parking, air rights, natural resource use, public space, infrastructure, historic preservation, accessory buildings, and lot coverage.
    • Zoning power is delegated to local governments (city councils, zoning/planning commissions).
    • Creating zoning ordinances involves making a zoning map and outlining permitted uses.

    Zoning Classifications

    • Common classifications: Residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, institutional, open space, conservation land, recreational.
    • Examples: Philadelphia has Complex zoning classifications with many sub-types, York has simpler classifications.

    Pennsylvania Zoning Concepts

    • As-of right zoning: Development allowed without commission approval if it meets zoning standards.
    • Incentive/inclusionary zoning: Relax zoning rules for developments deemed beneficial (e.g., transit, affordable housing).
    • Cluster zoning: Determines density for an entire area instead of lot-by-lot, often for affordable housing and community features (e.g., parks, open space).
    • Floating zones: Flexible zones that allow a change to a density classification if a project proposal meets requirements.
    • Aesthetic zoning: Requires buildings to match a certain architectural style.
    • Historic/landmark districts: Protects buildings of historic significance with regulations for construction/alterations.
    • Buffer zones: Separates zones to provide space/transition.

    Zoning Hearing Board (ZHB)

    • Quasi-judicial body interpreting and changing zoning law.
    • Addresses variances, special exceptions, and challenges to land-use ordinances.

    Variances

    • Permissions for property use that deviate from zoning regulations.
    • Must prove unique physical circumstances, unnecessary hardship, no adverse impact on neighborhood, minimal modification to the ordinance.

    Special Exceptions

    • Allowable use deviations explicitly outlined in zoning ordinances.

    Nonconforming Use

    • Existing use that no longer conforms to current zoning laws.
    • Typically allowed to continue but not expand.
    • "Legacy exception" granted to continue existing non-compliant use or with an amortization period (time to recoup initial investment).

    Spot Zoning

    • Rezoning a small area differently than surrounding areas, usually for the benefit of one owner. Usually illegal.

    Zoning Enforcement

    • Building permits: Necessary for building/renovations, plans must comply with zoning and building codes.
    • Certificate of Occupancy (CO): Necessary for building use and sale; ensures code compliance.
    • Building safety inspections: Regular checks for code compliance.
    • Zoning Officers: Manage and implement zoning; interpret ordinances but do not grant variances.
    • Court system: Final enforcement of building code and zoning regulations

    Urban Planning

    • Urban planning creates livable, healthy, affordable, and equitable cities with features like open space, walkable/bike neighborhoods, public transportation, and affordable housing.
    • Sprawl (low-density, car-dependent development) is the opposite of well-planned urban areas; it has negative environmental and social impacts.

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    Description

    This quiz explores the key aspects of planning and zoning, as guided by the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC). Participants will learn about the role of planning commissions, master plan development, and the essential components needed for effective land use management. Understand how social needs and environmental concerns are balanced in zoning regulations.

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