What determines how a parcel of land may be used?

Zoning regulations are the primary factors that determine how a parcel of land may be used. These regulations are put in place by local governments and dictate the types of activities that can occur on specific parcels, including residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural uses. Zoning laws help manage land use in a way that promotes the health, safety, and general welfare of the community. They establish the standards for building heights, lot sizes, densities, and even the types of businesses that may operate in certain areas.

While property management regulations, community association bylaws, and building codes play important roles in real estate management and safety, they do not fundamentally dictate the permissible uses of land. Property management regulations often concern the operation of properties rather than their zoning, community association bylaws govern the rules within specific communities or developments, and building codes ensure structures are built safely and to required standards. Thus, the most definitive authority on land use is provided by zoning regulations.