Zoning glossary

The terms that decide whether a site works. Each entry gives the definition, how the process runs, what it costs in time and risk, and how real jurisdictions apply it, with the statute or code cited.

By-right (as-of-right): A use or project the zoning code allows without a hearing or discretionary approval.
Conditional use permit (CUP): Approval for a use the code allows in a district only after case-by-case review and conditions.
Floor area ratio (FAR): Building floor area divided by lot area: the cap on how much floor space a site can hold.
Nonconforming use (grandfathered use): A use that was legal when it began but no longer complies because the zoning changed.
Overlay district: A second layer of zoning rules mapped over the base district that adds limits or permissions.
Rezoning (zoning map amendment): Changing a parcel's zoning district by ordinance, after hearings and a governing body vote.
Setback: The minimum distance a building must sit from a lot line, street, or other feature.
Spot zoning: Rezoning one small parcel unlike its surroundings to benefit an owner instead of following a plan.
Variance: Permission to depart from one zoning rule on one parcel when applying it as written causes a hardship.