What does a zoning ordinance primarily regulate?

A zoning ordinance primarily regulates land use, which encompasses how specific pieces of property within a jurisdiction can be utilized. This includes designating areas for residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural purposes, and setting limits on the types of activities that can take place within these designated zones. Zoning ordinances help manage urban development, ensure compatibility between different land uses, and protect the health and safety of the community by controlling the density and placement of buildings and structures.

Building codes, while related to construction, focus on the safety and structural integrity of buildings rather than how land can be used. Property taxes are determined based on assessed values and are not governed by zoning regulations, and property ownership involves the rights associated with owning real estate—this is separate from the rules governing how that property can be used based on zoning laws.