A zoning ordinance is a local law restricting the use of land and property for permitted purposes. Using land or property for purposes beyond the scope of what is permitted under the zoning regulations can subject the property owner and user to substantial fines and penalties.
The land is generally zoned for industrial, residential, commercial, or agricultural purposes. Depending on the locality, further restrictions may apply within those categories.
Zoning ordinances are generally perceived as a good thing for the community. For example, a person living in a small residential neighborhood would prefer to keep all the structures as residential homes. The community would not be happy if a builder purchased a property, demolished the house, and built an 80-story skyscraper in the neighborhood.