zoning

noun

zon·​ing ˈzō-niŋ How to pronounce zoning (audio)
: the act or process of partitioning a city, town, or borough into zones reserved for different purposes (such as residence or business)
also : the set of ordinances by which such zones are established and regulated
voted to change the town's zoning
zoning laws

Examples of zoning in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
Plans to build a 151-unit rental community in far south Fort Worth squeezed past the city’s zoning commission Wednesday afternoon. Jaime Moore-Carrillo, Fort Worth Star-Telegram, 13 Mar. 2025 Each of these cities use their own slightly different zoning schemes and pricing mechanisms, but ultimately, all are trying to reduce the number of cars and other vehicles in specific areas. Laurie Winkless, Forbes, 12 Mar. 2025 Like Alaska and California, Hawaii’s complex zoning regulations and permitting process also drive up costs. Katherine McLaughlin, Architectural Digest, 11 Mar. 2025 The Senate narrowly passed legislation reducing cities' zoning authority to spur construction of more affordable starter homes. Jeremy Duda, Axios, 7 Mar. 2025 See All Example Sentences for zoning

Word History

First Known Use

1912, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of zoning was in 1912

Browse Nearby Words

Cite this Entry

“Zoning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/zoning. Accessed 22 Mar. 2025.

Legal Definition

zoning

noun
zon·​ing
: municipal or county regulation of land use effected through the creation and enforcement of zones under local law

More from Merriam-Webster on zoning

Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
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