Legal Definitions - bonus zoning

Definition: Bonus zoning is a type of incentive zoning under zoning laws. It is a relaxation in zoning restrictions that offers an incentive to a developer to provide certain public benefits.

Example: A developer wants to build a high-rise building in a residential area, but the zoning laws restrict the height of buildings in that area. The city may offer bonus zoning to the developer, allowing them to build a taller building if they provide public benefits such as affordable housing units or public green space.

Explanation: Bonus zoning is a way for cities to encourage developers to provide public benefits in exchange for relaxation of zoning restrictions. In the example, the developer is allowed to build a taller building than what is normally allowed in the area, but they must provide affordable housing units or public green space to the community. This benefits the community and the developer, who can build a more profitable building.