What is Aesthetic Zoning?

Aesthetic zoning is a type of zoning that is used in real estate development to regulate the appearance and design of buildings in a given area.

This type of zoning is intended to create a cohesive and attractive visual environment by ensuring that new buildings are designed in a way that is consistent with the existing character of the area.

This can include regulating factors such as the height, size, and materials of buildings, as well as the colors and styles of their exteriors. Aesthetic zoning is often used in commercial and residential developments to maintain the aesthetic integrity of a neighborhood or district.

In short, Zoning, when used in the context of architecture, is known as aesthetic zoning. Aesthetic zoning is sometimes called architectural zoning.

Aesthetic zoning is unique compare to other typical zoning. It refers to the rules and regulations that determine how land could used within a city or town.

In planned residential communities, aesthetic zones are often utilized. The purpose of the rules is to preserve the look of the community by regulating what can be done or can not be done with properties. 

In general, the purpose of aesthetic zoning is to protect the character of the neighborhood. The rules are designed to preserve the aesthetics of the area and to ensure that the look of the neighborhood remains unchanged.

However, aesthetic zoning can also be used to change the look of the neighborhood. For example, an area might have aesthetic zoning rules that limit the height of buildings. But these same rules can also be used to limit the number of stores or restaurants that can be located in a certain area.

Aesthetic zoning can also be used to control the types of businesses that can be located in an area. For example, aesthetic zoning can be used to prohibit adult bookstores in a neighborhood.

Aesthetic Zoning Example

The most common example of aesthetic zoning is the preservation of historic districts. However, the practice of aesthetic zoning is not limited to these types of districts.

Aesthetic zoning can also apply to areas of a city or town that are designed to be visually pleasing. For example, a neighborhood could be aesthetically zoned to limit the height of buildings or to limit the number of parking spaces.

Aesthetic zoning can also be used to regulate the design of new buildings.

The aesthetic zoning rules may specify the color and style of the buildings.