Which is NOT a stated purpose of urban zoning?

• A. To promote orderly growth
• B. To protect property values
• C. To encourage incompatible land uses
• D. To reduce land-use conflicts

Answer: (C)

Zoning aims to guide development so land uses fit together in a predictable pattern. By designating specific areas for residential, commercial, and industrial uses and applying rules on density, setbacks, and buffers, zoning promotes orderly growth and helps plan infrastructure and services efficiently. It also protects property values by reducing the risk of conflicting uses that could create nuisances, traffic, or hazards, making neighborhoods more stable and predictable for owners. Zoning reduces land-use conflicts by separating incompatible activities and setting standards that keep noise, emissions, and other impacts from spilling into places where people live and invest. The idea of encouraging incompatible land uses runs counter to these goals—zoning seeks to avoid such clashes, not promote them.