Zero-lot lines

Zero-lot lines are rows of houses where the homes are built with no space between them and with each having little or no yard.  Zero-lot line construction usually involves adjacent townhouses or condominiums, although some planned developments do build single-family homes that butt up against one another and are arranged in a cluster with a separate community green space.  Zero-lot lines are common, and understandable, in bustling urban areas, where lot space for housing is limited.  The arrangement also is attractive to homeowners who, for reasons of age or lifestyle, wish to minimize the maintenance required for yard upkeep.

Zoning

Zoning refers to a set of legal regulations that control how land within a particular jurisdiction, or legally defined area, is used.  Zoning can define land as agricultural (farming), commercial (retail, restaurants, and businesses), industrial (factories), open space (parks and public spaces), or residential (homes).  In addition, some land may be zoned for more than one use-residential, open space, and commercial land is often located in the same area.  More specific zoning restrictions may also be imposed within a given designation; for example, land zoned residential could further specify that only single-family homes are permitted, rather than apartments or duplexes.

Zoning variance

A zoning variance is one-time modification of an existing zoning law.  Sometimes an individual or entity will have a good reason to be excused from compliance with zoning requirements.  Examples of unique situations when a variance may be granted include inability to meet parking space requirements where space is limited, or inability to meet a setback requirement where a lot is too small to allow for the minimum setback dictated by the zoning ordinance.  A variance may be requested by submitting an application to the county zoning authority; a zoning board will make the decision regarding whether or not to approve the variance.