American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What is a key feature of a zoning ordinance?

1. It cannot be modified once established.

2. It includes a legal and a graphic component.

3. It only applies to residential areas.

4. It is a historical document with no current use.

The correct answer is: It includes a legal and a graphic component.

A zoning ordinance is a crucial regulatory tool used in land use planning, and its key feature is that it includes both a legal and a graphic component. The legal component comprises the text of the ordinance, which outlines the rules and regulations governing land use, including permitted uses, development standards, and procedures for obtaining permits. The graphic component usually consists of zoning maps that visually represent different zoning districts within a municipality, indicating areas designated for residential, commercial, industrial, and other types of land uses. This duality allows for clear communication of zoning regulations to the public and developers, helping them understand the land use policies that govern a particular area. It also ensures that development aligns with the community's planning goals and policies, as depicted in the corresponding maps. This comprehensive approach is vital for avoiding confusion and ensuring compliance with local land use laws. In contrast, the other options—such as the idea that a zoning ordinance cannot be modified, that it only applies to residential areas, or that it is a historical document—do not accurately reflect the nature of zoning ordinances or the broader planning processes they are part of. Zoning ordinances can indeed be amended to respond to changing community needs, apply to various types of areas beyond just residential zones, and serve as