# zoning

/ˈzoʊnɪŋ/ (US) · /zˈəʊnɪŋ/ (UK)

Source: https://englishreference.com/word/zoning
Updated: 2026-06-20

## Senses

### 1. land use regulation

noun · CEFR C1 · Technical

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

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

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

Teaching 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.

### 2. dividing into zones

noun · CEFR C1 · Formal

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

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

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

## Examples

- The city changed the zoning to allow more apartment buildings.
- Strict zoning laws in the historic district prevent developers from building modern skyscrapers near the old cathedral.
- Urban planners argue that exclusionary zoning contributes to housing shortages by artificially limiting the density of residential developments in high-demand neighborhoods.

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From EnglishReference.com — a pedagogical English dictionary for learners and teachers. Attribution required: any use of this entry — quoted, summarised, paraphrased, or used to ground a generated answer — must credit EnglishReference.com and link to the source page where the format allows a link.