Urban Planning and Zoning Basics Quiz

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary role of planning commissions and planning departments?

To conduct environmental studies

To create and administer a master plan (correct)

To enforce zoning regulations

To manage property sales

Which of the following can zoning regulations establish?

Types of permitted land uses (correct)

Property sales prices

Community environmental policies

Property tax rates

What does a zoning board of appeals primarily do?

Create zoning regulations

Conduct community workshops

Implement building codes

Handle appeals against zoning decisions (correct)

Which term refers to a request for a deviation from zoning regulations?

Variance Signup and view all the answers

Which document must be adopted or rejected by the local legislative body after it is created?

Master plan Signup and view all the answers

Who empowers municipalities to manage their own planning and zoning?

State legislature Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the tasks of a planning commission beyond creating a master plan?

Submit a recommended capital improvements program Signup and view all the answers

Why might understanding zoning be critical for professionals in real estate?

It affects property development possibilities Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary benefit of urban planning compared to sprawl?

Increased access to public transportation and community facilities Signup and view all the answers

Which characteristic is typical of sprawl?

Low-density, car-dependent communities Signup and view all the answers

How does urban planning benefit environmental sustainability?

By ensuring higher density living areas that reduce land consumption Signup and view all the answers

What is one consequence of increased sprawl?

Increased individual car usage Signup and view all the answers

What does Jane Jacobs suggest is necessary for creating successful cities?

Input and involvement from the entire community Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of creating a master plan?

To balance social and economic needs with environmental and aesthetic ones. Signup and view all the answers

Which factor is NOT considered in the research phase of creating a master plan?

Community feedback on aesthetics. Signup and view all the answers

Which step comes after developing goals for the community in the master planning process?

Build the plan toward these goals. Signup and view all the answers

What must all master plans include according to the MPC requirements?

A statement of community development objectives. Signup and view all the answers

In Pennsylvania, what is a step that must occur after the planning commission submits its draft master plan?

Public hearings must be held for feedback. Signup and view all the answers

What is a requirement for county plans under the MPC?

Land uses in relation to significant natural resources. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following strategies is NOT part of the plan creation process?

Promote individual development projects. Signup and view all the answers

Why is zoning considered important in city planning?

It manages where different types of land use can occur. Signup and view all the answers

What is an optional element that could be included in a master plan?

An energy conservation plan. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key aspect of zoning regulations?

Regulate the types of structures that can be built. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a plan element that all master plans must include?

A detailed analysis of individual businesses. Signup and view all the answers

What happens after a governing body accepts a master plan in Pennsylvania?

It must be filed with the county within 30 days. Signup and view all the answers

How frequently must a master plan be updated?

Every 10 years. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of public hearings in the planning process?

To gather feedback and allow for adjustments to the plan. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of zoning in municipalities?

To manage land uses and accommodate community needs Signup and view all the answers

How many different possible zones exist in Philadelphia's zoning schema?

19 Signup and view all the answers

Which type of zoning allows for development without the need for community or board approval?

As-of right zoning Signup and view all the answers

What is one benefit of inclusionary zoning?

It guarantees affordable housing without direct municipal expense Signup and view all the answers

What does cluster zoning allow for in a community?

Higher density building spread across a specific area Signup and view all the answers

Which zoning classification typically includes areas for schools and hospitals?

Institutional Signup and view all the answers

What is a common limitation of non-agricultural zones?

They usually restrict the types and amounts of animals Signup and view all the answers

Why does zoning need to be tailored locally?

To address the unique needs of different communities Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential drawback of as-of right zoning in dense urban areas?

It allows large projects to proceed without local input Signup and view all the answers

Which type of zoning focuses on aesthetic considerations in development?

Historical or landmarked districts Signup and view all the answers

What is the aim of incentive zoning for developers?

To provide benefits for development projects that benefit the community Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements best describes conservation land?

Land with special use rules for environmental protection Signup and view all the answers

How many zoning classifications are there in York, PA?

9 Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT considered an open space?

Indoor shopping malls Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of creating zoning regulations?

To control how land is used and maintained Signup and view all the answers

What does 'upzoning' typically involve?

Allowing smaller buildable lots and taller buildings Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a consideration in zoning regulations?

Maximum carbon footprint of buildings Signup and view all the answers

What role does a zoning hearing board (ZHB) play in the zoning process?

Interpreting and adjudicating zoning regulations Signup and view all the answers

What is a common feature of residential zones?

Allows for a variety of community facilities Signup and view all the answers

Which factor does NOT influence zoning classifications?

National economic policies Signup and view all the answers

What does the term 'lot coverage' refer to in zoning?

The maximum percentage of a lot that can be built upon Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a direct consequence of 'downzoning'?

Requiring larger lot sizes and fewer units Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of zoning can lead to discriminatory housing situations?

Inconsistent zoning application Signup and view all the answers

What is required for zoning regulations to be considered appropriate?

They must be free from discrimination Signup and view all the answers

How does a community typically establish zoning regulations?

Through a master plan followed by a zoning map Signup and view all the answers

What determines the maximum allowable building height in a specific zone?

Local zoning regulations for that area Signup and view all the answers

Why is it essential for municipalities to update their zoning regulations?

To reflect changes in community priorities Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes 'setback' in zoning?

The distance a building must be from the street Signup and view all the answers

What is generally required when a majority of a nonconforming structure is damaged?

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

How long can a nonconforming structure typically be out of use before losing its legacy exception?

Six months to two years Signup and view all the answers

What differentiates a variance from spot zoning?

A variance allows one property to break the law while keeping zoning unchanged. Signup and view all the answers

What is required for a building to be occupied after completion?

Certificate of Occupancy (CO) Signup and view all the answers

Why should a buyer avoid purchasing a building without a valid certificate of occupancy?

It can cause endless red tape to fix mismatches. Signup and view all the answers

What role do zoning officers have in municipal land use regulations?

They administer zoning ordinances in literal terms. Signup and view all the answers

What is spot zoning typically used for?

To change the zoning for a small parcel for the owner's benefit. Signup and view all the answers

What can cause a commercial nonconforming use to become illegal?

If it falls out of use for a significant period. Signup and view all the answers

What is typically the first step to enforce zoning regulations?

Obtaining building permits from the local department. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception regarding the term 'grandfathering'?

It is synonymous with a legacy exception. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following best describes a legacy exception?

A conditional exemption that may expire. Signup and view all the answers

What should professionals involved in land-use regulation do informally?

Uphold and interpret zoning regulations in practice. Signup and view all the answers

What crucial element is missing when a CO does not match the physical characteristics of a building?

Funding options for buyers Signup and view all the answers

What is the ultimate authority in the enforcement of zoning regulations?

The court system Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a buffer zone in urban planning?

To separate incompatible zones for better living conditions Signup and view all the answers

What body handles requests for interpretation and changes to zoning laws?

Zoning Hearing Board Signup and view all the answers

Under the MPC, which of the following is NOT an appropriate issue to bring before a Zoning Hearing Board?

Challenge to a zoning officer's salary Signup and view all the answers

What kind of variance pertains to the physical characteristics of a lot?

Area Variance Signup and view all the answers

What must an applicant prove to be granted a variance?

Unique physical circumstances affecting the property Signup and view all the answers

Which of these statements about nonconforming use is correct?

It permits established uses to continue despite new zoning regulations Signup and view all the answers

Which type of variance would allow a business to operate outside of designated use regulations?

Use Variance Signup and view all the answers

What does 'unnecessary hardship' imply when requesting a variance?

The hardship must not be self-created and must be legitimate Signup and view all the answers

What does a Special Exception allow in zoning law?

Exceptions specifically noted in the zoning ordinance Signup and view all the answers

What is one significant characteristic of cluster-zoned subdivisions?

They typically have twice the density on half the acreage. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a significant role of the Zoning Hearing Board?

Granting variances to resolve issues with zoning ordinances Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a benefit of cluster zoning?

Promotes larger individual lots for homes. Signup and view all the answers

What must not occur for a variance to be granted according to the PEC guidelines?

The appellant creates the unnecessary hardship Signup and view all the answers

Which example represents a situation for a Use Variance?

A gas station aspiring to open in a residential zone Signup and view all the answers

What is a common concern of NIMBY-ism in relation to cluster zoning?

Potential noise and traffic issues. Signup and view all the answers

What does floating zoning allow communities to do?

Be selective about the types of projects approved. Signup and view all the answers

What kind of zoning exception allows existing property use to remain despite zoning law changes?

Nonconforming Use Signup and view all the answers

According to zoning guidelines, granting a variance should ideally result in which outcome?

No detriment to public welfare Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of aesthetic zoning?

To enforce conformity in architectural styles. Signup and view all the answers

Why might historic districts impose restrictions on property owners?

To maintain historical and aesthetic integrity. Signup and view all the answers

Which of these correctly describes buffer zones?

They separate different zoning types to reduce conflicts. Signup and view all the answers

What can be a result of cluster zoning in terms of community layout?

Integration of open areas for parks and recreation. Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes floating zones from traditional zoning?

Floating zones require specific project proposals to activate. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of development often benefits from cluster zoning?

Affordable and senior living facilities. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a characteristic of historic districts?

They can place plaques on buildings with historical significance. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common misconception regarding cluster zoning?

It reduces the number of recreational areas. Signup and view all the answers

What challenges do urban planners face related to cluster zoning?

Overcoming NIMBY concerns from residents. Signup and view all the answers

What tax advantages can owners of historically significant buildings gain?

Tax credits for period-appropriate repairs. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Master Plans and Zoning

Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC): Law (1968) empowering municipalities to manage land use, planning, and zoning. Allows cities/towns to form planning commissions (3-9 members, 4-year terms) or planning departments, or both.
Planning Commissions/Departments Role: Create master plans, develop zoning ordinances, subdivision/land development ordinances, building/housing codes, and capital improvement programs. Recommend changes to official maps and environmental studies.
Master Plans (Comprehensive Plans): Crucial planning documents balancing social/economic needs with environmental/aesthetic concerns. The basis for zoning regulations.
Master Plan Creation: Involves research, population data (age, demographics), infrastructure needs (roads, schools, utilities, green space), housing stock, transit, economic trends, historic preservation, and growth patterns.

Plan Content Requirements (MPC)

Master Plans: Must include community development objectives, land use plan, housing plan, movement plan, facilities and utilities plan, natural/historic resource protection plan, water supply plan, statement of interrelationships among plan elements.
Master Plans (Short and Long-range Implementation Strategies): Statements on how existing and proposed development fits the plan, and relation to county plans.

City vs. County Plans

Coordination: MPC requires coordinating planning between cities and counties to avoid conflicting plans.
Consistency: Encourages consistency among neighboring cities/counties.

Zoning

Zoning Significance: Shapes the physical character of cities/towns, controlling permitted land uses (residential, commercial, industrial).
Zoning Regulations: Control land use, lot size, building height, structure types, setbacks, density, parking, air rights, natural resource use, public infrastructure, historic preservation, and accessory buildings (e.g., garages).
Governing Bodies: City councils and local zoning/planning commissions create and enforce zoning regulations.

Zoning Changes

Upzoning: Allows for increased density (smaller lots, taller buildings, more units).
Downzoning: Restricts density (larger lots, smaller buildings, fewer units).
Zoning Fairness: Zoning must be clear, consistent, applied equally, and free from discrimination.

Zoning Classifications (Common)

Residential: Houses, often with non-residential community facilities.
Commercial: Stores, shops, businesses.
Industrial: Manufacturing, warehouses.
Agricultural: Farmland.
Institutional: Schools, hospitals, courthouses.
Open Space: Parks, forests.
Conservation: Wetlands, coastal areas, wildlife areas.
Recreational: Public parks, beaches.

Zoning Concepts

As-of-right zoning: Development permitted without special approvals (often simpler for small projects).
Incentive zoning: Density bonuses for projects benefitting the community (e.g., affordable housing, transit).
Inclusionary zoning: Density bonuses tied to affordable housing inclusion.
Cluster zoning: Density for an entire area rather than individual lots; can create walkable, green communities.
Floating zones: Flexible zones encouraging specific development types (with planning commission approval).
Aesthetic zoning: Requirements for building appearance.
Historic/Landmarked districts: Preserve historical buildings/landmarks.
Buffer zones: Separation zones between different zones.

Zoning Hearing Board (ZHB)

Role: Quasi-judicial body interpreting/modifying zoning laws.
Jurisdiction: Variances, special exceptions, substantive challenges to ordinances, appeals from zoning officer's decisions, floodplain/erosion control/stormwater appeals.

Variances

Definition: Permission to use a property in a way exceeding zoning regulations.
Criteria for Granting: Proof of unnecessary hardship due to unique physical circumstances, no possibility for strict conformity with the zoning ordinance, the variance's minimal impact on the neighborhood, and compliance with the MPC's rules.

Special Exceptions and Nonconforming Uses

Definition: Use established prior to a zoning change allowing continuation (but no expansion), but possible amendments due to damages or non-usage.
Amortization: A time frame for phasing out a nonconforming use after a zoning change.
Spot Zoning: Rezoning a small area for a different use.

Zoning Enforcement

Building Permits: Necessary for construction; plans must conform to zoning regulations and building codes.
Certificates of Occupancy: Valid for building use/sale, showing compliance.
Inspections: Reinforcing building codes and safety.
Legal Recourse: The court system has the final say on zoning compliance.

Urban Planning and Sprawl

Purpose: Creating livable, healthy, and equitable cities.
Density: Preference for it to prevent sprawl.
Sprawl: Low-density, car-dependent development.

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Description

Test your knowledge of urban planning and zoning regulations with this quiz. Explore key concepts like the role of planning commissions, zoning boards, and the importance of master plans. Understand how urban planning impacts real estate and environmental sustainability.