American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What did the Standard State Zoning Enabling Act of 1926 establish?

1. The right for comprehensive planning

2. New fire safety regulations

3. Land use taxation guidelines

4. Urban renewal projects

The correct answer is: The right for comprehensive planning

The Standard State Zoning Enabling Act of 1926 established the framework for zoning practices in the United States, granting local governments the authority to create zoning regulations that dictate land use. This act was a significant legal advancement, as it recognized the importance of comprehensive planning in guiding development and land use decisions. Local governments were enabled to regulate the use of land through zoning ordinances, which would typically outline districts for residential, commercial, industrial, and other types of development. The act essentially provided a legal basis for municipalities to implement zoning laws, promoting organized and planned growth. This comprehensive planning aspect is crucial because it allows communities to manage growth effectively, control density, and ensure that various land uses are compatible with one another, which can help preserve the quality of life for residents. The other options, while important in their own right, do not pertain specifically to the core aim of the Standard State Zoning Enabling Act. The act did not establish new fire safety regulations, give guidelines for land use taxation, or directly create urban renewal projects, which are managed through different frameworks and legislation.