English Reference
noun

zoning

n.
US /ˈzoʊnɪŋ/ UK /zˈəʊnɪŋ/ zon·ing

  1. 01 C1 Advanced Technical Law

    the official rules that control how land and buildings in a specific area can be used.

    the legal framework used by local governments to regulate the use of land and the types of structures permitted in specific districts.

    Simple

    The city changed the zoning of the old factory area so that new apartments could be built there.

    In context

    The developer's proposal was rejected because it violated local zoning ordinances regarding the maximum height of residential structures in the historic district.

    Usage

    Often used as an uncountable noun or as a modifier before another noun like 'laws', 'rules', or 'ordinances'.

    Teacher's tip

    This is a key term in urban planning and real estate; it is more common in American English contexts than 'planning permission' in British English.

    urban planningland use regulation
  2. 02 C1 Advanced Formal

    the act of dividing an area into different parts or zones, such as for travel prices or delivery.

    the systematic division of an area into functional zones for administrative, logistical, or pricing purposes.

    Simple

    The transport company introduced new zoning to make ticket prices fairer for people living in the suburbs.

    In context

    The logistics firm revised its delivery zoning to account for the increased fuel costs associated with rural distribution routes.

    Usage

    Can be used as a gerund or a verbal noun.

Chicago offers zoning incentives to encourage developers to build green roofs, like this one on City Hall.

The Conversation· 12 Aug 2026

A space-based system would avoid competing for local land and water resources, and it would not generate neighborhood noise or require local zoning approval in the same way.

ScienceDaily· 19 Jun 2026
This entry
Level C1 · Advanced
Frequency Frequent
Updated