American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Which growth management technique is best used to protect water supplies while land is being acquired for watershed protections?

1. Building permit caps

2. Subdivision phasing

3. Large lot zoning

4. Building permit moratorium

The correct answer is: Building permit moratorium

The technique of implementing a building permit moratorium is particularly effective for protecting water supplies while land is being acquired for watershed protections. A moratorium provides a temporary halt on issuing new building permits, allowing local governments to control and limit development in critical areas. This pause is essential in giving planners the time needed to assess, evaluate, and implement strategies aimed at safeguarding the watershed and ensuring that water supplies are not compromised by new developments. During this period, planners can focus on identifying priority areas for acquisition and the ecological health of the watershed, facilitating the purchase of land that is crucial for maintaining water quality and availability. The moratorium serves not only as a protective measure but also as a strategic tool for aligning land-use policies with the long-term goals of environmental sustainability and resource management. It enables communities to balance growth with the necessity of preserving vital water resources before proceeding with any new development activities.