Zoning is a way for communities to separate land by use or form. For example, an area could be dedicated for commercial or industrial use or there could be a restriction on how many housing units could be built. Zoning shapes the places where we live and also shapes our lives. Local zoning regulations determine where we can find housing, schools and parks and who gets to use them. Zoning defines the rules that govern what and where people and institutions can and cannot build in our city.
Zoning regulations promote land use patterns that are consistent with Wauwatosa’s Comprehensive Plan (Volume I and Volume 2) and protect the public health, safety, and general welfare.
Land use refers to the function of land, particularly how it is being used (e.g. residential, commercial, industrial). Land use is a process of organizing the use of land to meet desired development patterns, whereas zoning more specifically defines and regulates what kinds of uses are allowed on specific parcels and outlines development requirements.
Zoning for equity is an approach for meeting the needs of underserved communities through zoning regulations that diminish disparities while fostering places that are healthy and vibrant. Zoning for equity is driven by priorities and values, as well as clear expectations that the outcomes from development need to be responsive to underserved populations and vulnerable groups, in addition to using innovative design strategies and sustainable policies. Zoning for equity is a crucial tool to remedy past wrongs and open up regulatory options for an equitable future.