Which term refers to the act of restricting land use either by prohibiting additional building or by requiring high standards?

• A. Zoning
• B. Exclusionary zoning
• C. Spot zoning
• D. Special exception

Answer: (B)

Exclusionary zoning describes using zoning rules to restrict development by prohibiting certain types of construction or by imposing standards that are so high that they effectively prevent new building. This approach often aims to preserve neighborhood character or exclude certain groups by making compliance financially or practically difficult, such as requiring very large lot sizes or stringent setbacks.

General zoning is the overall framework for land-use regulation, not specifically about restricting growth. Spot zoning refers to favoring a single parcel or project, typically to benefit a particular owner. A special exception (variance) is a permission granted to depart from a zoning rule under specific conditions, not a broad restriction on land use.