Traditional Euclidian Zoning Basics

Question 1

What is traditional Euclidian Zoning, and where did it originate from?

Answer 1

Euclidian zoning is the most basic form of zoning that separates residential, commercial, agricultural and industrial uses

1. The name comes from Village of Euclid v. Ambler Realty Co.-the first supreme court case that upheld the constitutionality of zoning
2. Euclidian zoning is relatively rigid and focuses on separation of different uses

Question 2

What are the goals of traditional Euclidian zoning?

Answer 2

1. Promote and protect low-density detached single family homes
2. Separation of different uses

Question 3

How do modern zoning codes differ from traditional ones?

Answer 3

1. Protect residential neighborhoods
2. Revitalize urban core areas
3. Address traffic and environmental issues related to urban sprawl

Question 4

What did cumulative zoning mean in EZ?

Answer 4

EZ was Cumulative zoning essentially in the sense that “less intense” uses (like residential) were allowed in more intense zones (commercial and industrial) but more intense uses were excluded from less intense zones

Question 5

Because of the rigidity of EZ what innovations evolved?

Answer 5

1. Special exceptions
2. Contract zoning
3. Floating zones
4. Overlay zones

Question 6

Who created the first municipal zoning ordinances and when was it enacted?

Answer 6

New York; 1916