What is the primary function of zoning ordinances?

Zoning ordinances serve to categorize land into specific zones designated for various types of use, such as residential, commercial, and industrial. This classification is crucial because it helps to organize urban growth and development, ensuring that conflicting land uses do not interfere with one another. For instance, residential areas can be protected from the potential noise and traffic associated with commercial or industrial activities. By clearly defining the purpose of different areas, zoning ordinances contribute to orderly community development, promote public health and safety, and preserve the character of neighborhoods.

This primary function sets the stage for managing land use effectively and ensures that the interests of the community are served, balancing development while minimizing potential disputes over land use and compatibility. While preventing nuisances, establishing property ownership, and regulating land sales may be related aspects of land management, they are secondary to the comprehensive categorization of land use that zoning ordinances provide.