What does zoning refer to in urban planning?

Zoning in urban planning primarily refers to the division of land into designated sections that are allocated for specific uses. This process serves multiple purposes, including managing land use to ensure that areas are developed in a way that meets the needs of the community while also protecting public health and safety. Zoning can dictate how land can be utilized, including residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural purposes.

By dividing land into different zones, urban planners can regulate the density of development, the types of buildings that can be constructed, and how these different uses interact with one another. For instance, zoning laws may prevent heavy industrial operations from being located next to residential neighborhoods to minimize noise and pollution impacts on residents.

The other options describe processes and regulations that, while related to urban planning, do not specifically define zoning itself. Building codes address safety and construction standards rather than land use. Environmental impact assessments involve evaluating potential effects on the environment, which can be influenced by zoning but are distinct from it. Regulations governing architectural design styles focus on aesthetics rather than the organization of land into distinct uses. Thus, the concept of zoning stands out as the systematic method for dividing land into sections suited for different purposes.