American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What defines non-cumulative zoning?

1. Allowing multiple uses in one zone.

2. Prohibiting all but the listed land uses.

3. Encouraging community-based land planning.

4. Permitting traditional land uses only.

The correct answer is: Prohibiting all but the listed land uses.

Non-cumulative zoning is characterized by its strict regulatory framework that allows only specific listed land uses within a designated zone. This means that if a use is not explicitly mentioned in the zoning ordinance as permissible, it is automatically prohibited. Such zoning is often used to protect certain areas from incompatible developments that could harm the character of the neighborhood or community. It serves to maintain clear boundaries regarding what activities are allowed, and it helps preserve the intended purpose of each zoning district. In contrast, other options present different zoning paradigms. Allowing multiple uses in one zone typically pertains to cumulative zoning, which is more flexible and permits a mix of uses. Encouraging community-based land planning refers to a participatory approach in which community input guides zoning decisions, rather than strictly adhering to a predetermined list of uses. Permitting traditional land uses only suggests a limited scope that may not entail the prohibitive nature of non-cumulative zoning, focusing instead on pre-defined uses without the exclusionary aspect present in non-cumulative systems.