Planning and zoning regulations are based on what principle?

Planning and zoning regulations are fundamentally grounded in the principle of government control over private land use to promote public benefit. This principle recognizes that while individuals have private property rights, the government has a responsibility to manage land use in a way that considers the health, safety, and welfare of the entire community. By designing and implementing zoning laws, government authorities can ensure that land is used appropriately, preventing conflicts that could arise from incompatible land uses, such as industrial operations next to residential neighborhoods.

Planning and zoning aim to facilitate orderly growth and development, protect the environment, provide public services effectively, and maintain the character of communities. This approach ultimately serves the public interest, making it crucial for the health and sustainability of urban and rural areas. The choice that reflects this principle emphasizes the balance between individual property rights and the collective well-being of society.