zoning

noun

zon·​ing ˈzō-niŋ How to pronounce zoning (audio)
: the act or process of partitioning a city, town, or borough into zones reserved for different purposes (such as residence or business)
also : the set of ordinances by which such zones are established and regulated
voted to change the town's zoning
zoning laws

Examples of zoning in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
The law allows housing projects on properties within one-half mile of certain transit stops, even if local zoning rules would prohibit them. — Angela Rodriguez, Sacbee.com, 1 July 2026 At a meeting Monday, Inola’s mayor and board of trustees officially hit pause on zoning approvals for the smelter. — Graycen Wheeler, KOSU, 1 July 2026 Many of these sites are connected to energy grids and water infrastructure, and already have zoning statuses that make permitting faster, without the need to clear or reclaim land. — Sasha Luccioni, Time, 3 July 2026 Mita's plans were initially unfeasible due to the site's unique zoning laws, which only allows amusements, retail shops and restaurants, according to Courier Post. — Colson Thayer, PEOPLE, 30 June 2026 See All Example Sentences for zoning

Word History

First Known Use

1912, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of zoning was in 1912

Rhymes for zoning

See All Rhymes for zoning

Browse Nearby Words

zoniferous
zoning
zonite
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Cite this Entry

“Zoning.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/zoning. Accessed 7 Jul. 2026.

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Legal Definition

zoning

noun
zon·​ing
: municipal or county regulation of land use effected through the creation and enforcement of zones under local law

More from Merriam-Webster on zoning

Nglish: Translation of zoning for Spanish Speakers

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