New York Real Estate Salesperson ExaminationLand Use Controls and RegulationsEasy
A municipality is developing a comprehensive plan to guide its future growth and development over the next 20 years. This plan will include elements such as land use, housing, transportation, and infrastructure. Which of the following terms best describes this overarching planning document?
- AZoning Ordinance
- BBuilding Code
- CSubdivision Regulation
- DMaster Plan
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Master Plan
A master plan (also known as a comprehensive plan or general plan) is a long-range planning document that guides the future physical development of a community, addressing various elements like land use, housing, transportation, and public facilities.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. A zoning ordinance implements the master plan by dividing the community into districts and specifying allowable uses and dimensional standards.
- B. A building code establishes minimum standards for construction, safety, and materials, not overarching development guidance.
- C. Subdivision regulations control the division of land into smaller parcels and the associated infrastructure, a specific aspect of development.
Master Plan (Comprehensive Plan)
A long-range blueprint for the physical development of a city or county, providing a framework for future zoning, public works, and economic development decisions.
- Guides future growth over 10-20 years.
- Includes land use, housing, transportation, infrastructure.
- Implemented through zoning ordinances and other regulations.
Memory trick: The 'Master' plan is the big picture, the 'Zoning' is the detailed rules.