American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

Who is known as the father of zoning in the United States?

1. Daniel Hudson Burnham

2. Edward M. Bassett

3. Alfred Bettman

4. Clarence Stein

The correct answer is: Edward M. Bassett

Edward M. Bassett is recognized as the father of zoning in the United States due to his pivotal role in developing and implementing zoning laws. In the early 20th century, Bassett was instrumental in drafting New York City’s zoning ordinance in 1916, which was the first comprehensive zoning regulation in the country. This ordinance sought to manage land use, separate incompatible uses, and guide urban growth, thereby laying the foundation for modern zoning practices across the nation. His contributions to zoning not only established a framework for regulating land use but also influenced subsequent zoning laws in other cities, making his work a critical milestone in urban planning. Bassett’s advocacy for zoning laws reflected a broader movement in urban planning to enhance public welfare and safety by controlling how land could be used, an essential principle for maintaining orderly and sustainable urban development. Other figures in the choices, while significant in the field of planning, did not have the same foundational impact on zoning as Bassett did. For instance, Daniel Hudson Burnham was a key figure in city planning and design but not specifically in zoning. Alfred Bettman contributed to topics related to urban development and planning law, whereas Clarence Stein focused on neighborhood planning and design rather than zoning specifically. Thus, Bassett’s unique