Land-Use Intensity

### What does land-use intensity measure? - [x] The extent to which a land parcel is developed in conformity with zoning ordinances. - [ ] The number of buildings in a city. - [ ] The property tax rate of a development area. - [ ] The traffic congestion in urban zones. > **Explanation:** Land-use intensity measures how extensively a land parcel is developed according to the guidelines set out by zoning ordinances. ### What component is critical for calculating land-use intensity? - [ ] Number of tenants. - [x] Floor Area Ratio (FAR). - [ ] Local weather conditions. - [ ] Property insurance premiums. > **Explanation:** The Floor Area Ratio (FAR) is crucial in calculating land-use intensity as it defines the total building area relative to the plot size. ### How does higher land-use intensity impact property values typically? - [x] It often leads to higher property values. - [ ] It typically decreases property values. - [ ] It has no impact on property values. - [ ] It causes property values to fluctuate randomly. > **Explanation:** Higher land-use intensity usually leads to higher property values as the land is used to its maximum potential under zoning laws. ### Can local governments alter land-use intensity levels? - [x] Yes, through amendments to zoning ordinances or granted variances. - [ ] No, intensity levels are permanent once set. - [ ] Yes, but only through federal intervention. - [ ] No, changes require a state referendum. > **Explanation:** Local governments can alter land-use intensity levels with amendments to zoning ordinances or through variances granted by zoning boards. ### What does the term "density" generally refer to in urban planning? - [ ] The rigidity of building materials. - [ ] The amount of open space in a development. - [x] The quantity of residential units or floor area per unit of land. - [ ] The distance between utility lines. > **Explanation:** In urban planning, "density" typically refers to the number of residential units or the amount of floor area per unit of land. ### What is a mixed-use development? - [ ] A building used for storage alone. - [ ] An area with only commercial spaces. - [x] A development with both residential and commercial spaces. - [ ] A region dedicated solely to public utilities. > **Explanation:** A mixed-use development includes both residential units and commercial spaces in the same area. ### Which tool is primarily used by municipalities to manage land-use intensity? - [ ] Annual property tax assessments. - [ ] Real estate market surveys. - [ ] Building material codes. - [x] Zoning ordinances. > **Explanation:** Municipalities manage land-use intensity primarily through zoning ordinances that dictate permissible uses and development extents for areas. ### Why is it important to measure land-use intensity? - [ ] To monitor home appliances. - [ ] To calculate homeowner insurance. - [x] To ensure development is sustainable and compliant with regulations. - [ ] To assess road quality. > **Explanation:** Measuring land-use intensity is important to ensure that development aligns with sustainable practices and complies with zoning and community planning regulations. ### Are zoning laws a fixed rule for how properties must be used? - [ ] Yes, always. - [x] No, they can evolve with amendments and variances. - [ ] Yes, but only in commercial areas. - [ ] Only under certain federal laws. > **Explanation:** Zoning laws are not fixed and can evolve over time through amendments and variances to better meet community goals. ### Who commonly uses the concept of land-use intensity? - [ ] Restaurant managers. - [ ] Supply chain analysts. - [x] Urban planners and developers. - [ ] Personal bloggers. > **Explanation:** Urban planners and developers commonly use the concept of land-use intensity to guide and manage the development of properties within regulatory frameworks.