Legal Definitions - conditional use zoning

Conditional use zoning is a type of zoning that allows for certain land uses to be permitted in a specific area, but only under certain conditions. These conditions are usually outlined in a contract or agreement between the property owner and the local government.

For example, a city may allow a business to operate in a residential area, but only if the business agrees to limit its hours of operation and the amount of noise it generates. Another example could be a church being allowed to build in a commercial area, but only if it agrees to limit the number of parking spaces it uses.

These examples illustrate how conditional use zoning can be used to balance the needs of different groups in a community. It allows for certain land uses that may not be allowed under traditional zoning regulations, but only if certain conditions are met to ensure that the use does not negatively impact the surrounding area.