What is the main characteristic of a zoning ordinance?

The primary characteristic of a zoning ordinance is to regulate property character and use. Zoning ordinances serve as legal tools established by municipalities to control how land can be developed and utilized in different areas of a community. They dictate the types of activities that can occur in specific zones, such as residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural use.

This regulation helps to maintain the character of neighborhoods, reduce conflicts between incompatible land uses, and guide future development to ensure that it aligns with the community's overall planning goals. For instance, a zoning ordinance might prohibit heavy industrial activities in residential areas to protect the quality of life for residents.

By establishing these parameters, zoning ordinances play a crucial role in urban planning and development.