Zoning ordinances primarily serve to regulate land use and the types of buildings that can be constructed or modified in specific areas. By establishing different zoning categories, such as residential, commercial, industrial, or agricultural, these ordinances help ensure that land is used in a way that is beneficial for the community as a whole. This regulation can effectively prevent incompatible land uses in close proximity, thus maintaining the character of neighborhoods and promoting public welfare.
For example, zoning ordinances might restrict the construction of factories in residential areas, thus protecting homes from noise and pollution. They also dictate aspects of property development, such as building height, density, and setbacks from the street.
Other options refer to different aspects of property and development. Determining property tax rates is typically the responsibility of local government and tax assessment officials rather than zoning regulations. Providing historical preservation guidelines may relate to zoning in some contexts but is more specifically aimed at protecting the character of designated historical areas. Setting maximum rents for residential properties pertains to rent control laws, which are distinct from zoning ordinances and focus on housing affordability.