American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Which zoning district is mentioned that has fully described requirements but remains unmapped?

1. Floating Zone

2. Overlay Zone

3. Planned Unit Development

4. Transitional Zone

The correct answer is: Floating Zone

A floating zone is a unique type of zoning district that is detailed in terms of its requirements and permitted uses but is not assigned to a specific geographic area or "mapped" on zoning maps. Instead, floating zones are established to allow for flexibility and adaptability in land use planning. They are often used to accommodate special projects that may arise in the future, such as mixed-use developments or innovative housing solutions, without being restricted to specific areas. Local governments can utilize floating zones by applying them to a site after a proposal is made and it meets the defined criteria. This allows for tailored development that can address current community needs without prematurely designating areas for specific uses. The floating nature of these zones encourages community input and ensures that development aligns with the overall planning vision. In contrast, other types of zoning districts, such as overlay zones or planned unit developments, typically involve more definitive mapping or specific area designations attached to them. Overlay zones, for example, impose additional regulations on top of existing zoning, while planned unit developments integrate various land uses in a way that is usually predetermined and mapped out. Therefore, the distinctive characteristic of a floating zone being unmapped while still having fully described requirements is what makes it the correct answer.