PSI Exam: Land Use Controls and Regulations Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified

PSI Exam: Land Use Controls and Regulations Questions and Answers | Latest Version | 2025/2026 | Correct & Verified What is the purpose of zoning laws? To regulate land use and promote orderly growth Who enforces local zoning ordinances? Municipal or county zoning authorities What does a setback requirement control? The distance a structure must be from a property line What is the purpose of a building permit? To ensure construction complies with codes and regulations What is a variance in zoning? A permitted exception to a zoning rule 2 What is a conditional use permit? Approval for land use not typically allowed in that zone What does the term "nonconforming use" mean? A use that existed before current zoning laws and is allowed to continue What does downzoning refer to? Changing zoning to a more restrictive use What is an example of police power in real estate? Enforcing building safety codes What does the term "eminent domain" refer to? The government’s power to take private land for public use What is required for the government to take private property? Just compensation to the owner 3 What is an easement? A legal right to use another person’s land for a specific purpose What is a subdivision ordinance? Rules that regulate how land can be divided into lots What is a buffer zone? A strip of land used to separate different land uses What is the main purpose of a master plan? To guide long-term community development Who usually prepares the comprehensive plan? The local planning commission What is spot zoning? A change in zoning for a single property