Urban Planning and Zoning Quiz

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Questions and Answers

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

To collect zoning fees

To audit local businesses

To create and administer a master plan (correct)

To enforce building codes

Who has the authority to form a planning commission according to the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code?

Any resident of the municipality

Elected officials in the municipality (correct)

The state governor

The federal government

What is a common task of a planning commission besides creating a master plan?

Set commercial property taxes

Provide recommendations on environmental studies (correct)

Organize community events

Conduct building inspections

What often must happen for a master plan to take effect?

It must be approved by the local legislative body Signup and view all the answers

What typically characterizes the members of a planning commission?

They are community members appointed for terms Signup and view all the answers

What does the zoning board of appeals primarily deal with?

Reviewing variance requests and non-conforming uses Signup and view all the answers

What is the significance of zoning for a property?

It determines the possible uses allowed for the property Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following terms describes a use that does not conform to current zoning regulations but was established legally before the change?

Non-conforming use Signup and view all the answers

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

Increased car dependency Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of sprawl?

Car-dependent communities Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements reflects a negative impact of sprawl?

It costs America approximately $1 trillion a year. Signup and view all the answers

What does density help facilitate in urban planning?

Increased green spaces Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a consequence of poorly planned sprawl?

Unplanned expansion of infrastructure Signup and view all the answers

What is as-of right zoning?

Development that conforms to local zoning standards. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a characteristic of incentive zoning?

It relaxes zoning ordinances to benefit public interests. Signup and view all the answers

Which city has a more complex zoning structure?

Philadelphia, PA Signup and view all the answers

What is cluster zoning primarily designed to accomplish?

Creating affordable housing and maximizing green space. Signup and view all the answers

What type of zoning allows for larger projects without public hearings in dense cities?

As-of right zoning Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a common type of zoning classification mentioned?

Environmental zoning Signup and view all the answers

Inclusionary zoning primarily aims to:

Provide density bonuses for affordable housing. Signup and view all the answers

What differentiates the zoning schemes of Philadelphia from York?

The number of residential zones. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary focus of a master plan?

Balancing social, economic, environmental, and aesthetic needs Signup and view all the answers

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

It greatly restricts community input on developments. Signup and view all the answers

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

A detailed marketing strategy for local businesses Signup and view all the answers

Which type of zoning supports the conservation of historical sites and areas?

Aesthetic zoning Signup and view all the answers

What is the first step involved in creating a master plan?

Research data about the population and area Signup and view all the answers

Which aspect of community planning includes limiting construction to guide growth?

Zoning Regulations Signup and view all the answers

What might be a common purpose of open space zoning?

To create areas for recreational use and ecological preservation. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common feature of buffer zones?

They are created to shield incompatible land uses from each other. Signup and view all the answers

What does the phrase 'interrelationships among various plan elements' refer to in a master plan?

How different strategies, such as housing and transportation, affect each other Signup and view all the answers

Which zoning type might be used to comply with environmental regulations?

Conservation land zoning Signup and view all the answers

During the approval process, what must occur after submitting a master plan?

Public hearings for feedback from stakeholders Signup and view all the answers

Why do cities like York benefit from simpler zoning classifications?

It allows for faster development processes. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of zoning is primarily aimed at preserving agricultural operations?

Agricultural zoning Signup and view all the answers

How often must a master plan be updated according to the guidelines?

Every 10 years Signup and view all the answers

What is an optional element that a master plan might include?

An energy conservation plan Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of growth patterns within the master planning process?

To understand where infrastructure needs to be developed Signup and view all the answers

Which document is essential for the establishment of a master plan in a county?

The planning agency's comprehensive surveys Signup and view all the answers

What must occur if the governing body votes to accept the master plan?

Filing the plan with the county within 30 days Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following elements is critical for ensuring zoning plans are effective?

Coordination between city and county plans Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following does zoning primarily regulate?

Types of construction and land use Signup and view all the answers

What is a key outcome expected from creating a master plan?

A clear understanding of future community needs Signup and view all the answers

What is the main purpose of creating a master plan in a community?

To outline community priorities for growth and sustainability Signup and view all the answers

What does upzoning typically allow for in a community?

The construction of taller and denser buildings Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT typically a consideration for zoning regulations?

Permitted construction materials Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential consequence of inconsistent zoning application?

Discriminatory housing situations Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about land use zoning is true?

Zoning classifications can vary based on local needs Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the roles of the zoning hearing board (ZHB)?

To interpret zoning regulations created by local government Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following factors can zoning regulations include regarding environmental concerns?

Conservation and wetland protections Signup and view all the answers

What defines the term 'setback' in zoning regulations?

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

What does downzoning typically require in a community?

Larger lot sizes and increased separation between buildings Signup and view all the answers

What is meant by 'air rights' in the context of zoning?

The legal rights for constructing above a property Signup and view all the answers

Which is an example of a permitted use in residential zoning?

Community facilities like schools Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of city councils in zoning?

To create and enforce zoning regulations Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential benefit of zoning regulations?

Providing clarity and consistency in land use Signup and view all the answers

What can zoning regulations help determine about a neighborhood?

The maximum allowable density of housing Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary characteristic of cluster-zoned subdivisions?

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

How does cluster zoning contribute to affordable housing?

By enabling smaller, multi-unit buildings that are cheaper to construct. Signup and view all the answers

What does NIMBY stand for?

Not In My Backyard. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of floating zones?

To allow communities to dictate the types of projects that can be developed. Signup and view all the answers

What is the goal of aesthetic zoning?

To ensure uniform architectural styles within a neighborhood. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of historic districts?

To enforce the preservation of historically significant buildings. Signup and view all the answers

What is a buffer zone designed to do?

To minimize conflicts between two different zones. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a benefit of cluster zoning?

Increased ecological habitats and water reclamation areas. Signup and view all the answers

What happens to a nonconforming structure if it is damaged or burned beyond a majority?

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

In which type of development is cluster zoning commonly used?

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

Which statement reflects a common misconception about cluster zoning?

It always leads to increased property values. Signup and view all the answers

How long can a nonconforming structure be out of use before it loses its legacy exception?

Six months to two years Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a variance in zoning regulations?

To give relief to property owners under specific circumstances. Signup and view all the answers

Which is a potential downside of cluster zoning as perceived by communities?

Higher levels of noise and traffic. Signup and view all the answers

What is spot zoning?

Rezoning a small parcel for a use different from its surroundings. Signup and view all the answers

What does including a property in the National Register of Historic Places provide?

Tax credits for appropriate renovations. Signup and view all the answers

What can be a challenge in implementing cluster zoning?

Resistance from local communities fearing change. Signup and view all the answers

What must be obtained before beginning construction on a new building?

A building permit Signup and view all the answers

Which zoning practice is often illegal and similar to floating zones but carries greater risk?

Spot zoning. Signup and view all the answers

What is a Certificate of Occupancy (CO) used for?

To attest that a building has been completed up to code. Signup and view all the answers

What potential issue arises from a mismatched Certificate of Occupancy?

It can lead to legal complications for the buyer. Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for administering zoning ordinances in municipalities?

Zoning officers Signup and view all the answers

What does the court system provide in relation to zoning regulations?

The final say over the legality of zoning regulations. Signup and view all the answers

Why is urban planning considered important?

It makes cities more livable, healthy, and equitable. Signup and view all the answers

How do legacy exceptions benefit property owners?

They allow nonconforming structures to avoid zoning changes. Signup and view all the answers

What constitutes illegal spot zoning?

Changing a property's use without community input. Signup and view all the answers

What is a common function of building safety inspectors?

To ensure buildings comply with code, post-construction. Signup and view all the answers

What usually triggers the expiration of a legacy exception?

The structure being damaged or out of use for a defined period. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a buffer zone in zoning?

To create a transition space between different zones Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a function of the Zoning Hearing Board?

Developing new zoning laws Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best defines a variance?

Permission to use land differently than zoning allows Signup and view all the answers

What must an applicant demonstrate to be granted a variance?

That the hardship is due to unique physical circumstances Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes an area variance from a use variance?

Area variance deals with physical characteristics of the land Signup and view all the answers

If a property is a nonconforming use, what does it mean?

The property was legal before a zoning change Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a requirement for granting a variance?

The situation must create an unnecessary hardship Signup and view all the answers

What is a special exception in zoning?

Use specified in the zoning ordinance with conditions Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is an example of an area variance?

A homeowner needing a shorter fence due to an oddly shaped yard Signup and view all the answers

What must not be true for an applicant seeking a variance?

They must meet all zoning regulations Signup and view all the answers

The phrase 'unnecessary hardship' in the context of zoning means?

The hardship is legitimate and not self-inflicted Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following appeals can the Zoning Hearing Board hear?

An appeal from a zoning officer's decision Signup and view all the answers

What might happen if a property is nonconforming?

It can continue to operate the same way unless expanded Signup and view all the answers

To whom do the rules for the Zoning Hearing Board pertain?

To landowners requesting zoning interpretations or changes Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Master Plans and Zoning

Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code (MPC): A 1968 law empowering municipalities to manage land use. It allows cities and towns to establish planning commissions or departments (3-9 appointed members, 4-year terms).
Planning Commissions/Departments' Roles: Primarily responsible for creating, presenting, and administering a master plan. Other duties include preparing zoning ordinances, subdivision regulations, building codes, and capital improvement programs.

Master Plans: Creation and Content

Purpose: Balances social/economic needs with environmental/aesthetic concerns. Zoning regulations are derived from the plan.
Master Plan Development: Involves research (physical surveys, demographics, infrastructure needs), housing stock, transit, economic trends, preservation concerns, and growth patterns. Must consider future needs and growth in relation to infrastructure.
Required Plan Elements (MPC): Statement of community development objectives, land use plan, housing needs plan, movement/goods plan, community facilities/utilities plan, natural/historic resource protection, water supply, interrelationships among elements, short/long-range implementation strategies, consistency with contiguous municipalities and county plans.
Optional Elements: Growth and development areas, energy conservation plans.
County Plan Requirements (MPC): Identifies land uses, relating them to natural resources and minerals; current/proposed land uses with regional impact; agricultural land preservation; and historic preservation.
Inter-Municipal Planning: MPC emphasizes coordination and consistency between city and county plans, and neighboring municipalities.
Plan Approval Process:
Submission 45 days before hearings to neighboring municipalities, county, and affected school districts.
Public hearings by planning and governing bodies, allowing for stakeholder feedback and amendments.
Acceptance and filing with county at least 30 days after governing body approval.
Creation of zoning laws to enact plan, draft by planning commission; redrawing official map.
Plan update every 10 years.

Zoning Regulations

Purpose: Controls land use and the built environment, reflecting community priorities (farms stay farms, cities stay cities).
Zoning Regulation Content:
Land use classifications (residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, institutional, open space, conservation, recreational).
Minimum/maximum lot sizes, building heights, permitted structures, setbacks, density, parking requirements, air rights transfer, resource use, public areas, and infrastructure. historic & landmark preservation, accessory buildings, and lot coverage.
Zoning Responsibility: Delegated to local governments (city council, zoning/planning commissions).
Zoning Law Creation: Driven by the approved master plan. Creating a zoning map dividing land by use types and defining permitted actions within these zones.

Zoning Changes and Concepts

Affecting Density: Upzoning increases density (allowing more people); downzoning decreases density.
Process Considerations: clear, equal application, no discrimination, and reasonableness.
Common Zoning Classifications: Residential, commercial, industrial, agricultural, institutional, open space, conservation, recreational (many municipalities create other classifications). Philly Zoning is very detailed; York, PA is a simpler example.
Zoning Board of Appeals (ZHB): Handles variance applications and special exceptions, interpreting zoning ordinances. Resolves disputes around zoning laws.

Variance Approvals

Process: Applicants must prove unusual conditions on the property make full compliance with the zoning ordinance impossible, thereby justifying a variance to use the property in a non-standard manor. The Zonal Hearing Board weighs the requested variance's benefits against its potential negative impact on the neighborhood.
Types of Variances: Area variance (pertaining to land characteristics); Use variance (for a non-standard use).

Special Exceptions

Allowable exceptions specified within zoning ordinances. Usually for uses permitted despite not matching the standard zoning.

Nonconforming Uses

Uses that once complied with zoning but now don't because of updated regulations. Usually permitted to continue. Does not allow for expansion or alteration and the use must conform to newer regulations.

Spot Zoning

A change to zoning for a small parcel, often done to benefit the owner. This is viewed as irregular as it does not follow the established plan.

Zoning Enforcement and Inspections

Enforcement is done through building permits (review and approval), Certificates of Occupancy (final approval of a building and whether it is up to code), and building safety inspections.
Zoning officers & Court System: Zoning officers administer ordinances, while courts enforce the regulations.

Urban Planning Importance

Goal: Making cities more livable, sustainable, affordable & equitable; with considerations for open space, transportation, green areas, walking/biking paths, and affordable housing. Opposite of sprawl (low-density development).

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Description

Test your knowledge on the roles and responsibilities of planning commissions and zoning regulations. This quiz covers essential concepts in urban planning, including master plans, sprawl characteristics, and zoning boards. Perfect for students of urban studies or municipal planning.