American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Which governmental action is commonly associated with urban land development regulations?

1. Environmental impact assessments

2. Transportation planning

3. Zoning ordinances

4. Public health regulations

The correct answer is: Zoning ordinances

Zoning ordinances are a fundamental tool in urban land development regulations. They are laws that define how land in a particular area can be used, specifying the types of buildings allowed, their dimensions, the density of development, and the areas designated for residential, commercial, industrial, or mixed uses. The primary goal of zoning is to ensure that land use aligns with the community's growth objectives and to protect public welfare by preventing incompatible land uses from being situated near each other. Zoning ordinances also help manage urban sprawl, encourage efficient land use, and foster the creation of a cohesive community. Additionally, they play a crucial role in preserving the character of neighborhoods, protecting natural resources, and ensuring adequate public services. Thus, zoning ordinances are a direct reflection of a government's regulatory approach to urban development, making them central to the question about governmental actions in this context. While environmental impact assessments, transportation planning, and public health regulations are important components of the broader planning process, they do not directly dictate land use in the same specific manner as zoning ordinances.