Zoning/ˈzəʊnɪŋ/ Definition 1 of 3Pro Tip 1/3Local Impact Zoning affects daily life by determining where we can live, work, or play in a city. Residential zoning keeps factories away from homes. Pro Tip 2/3City Planning Zoning is used by urban planners to shape the growth and structure of communities. Zoning can create a commercial district for shops and offices. Pro Tip 3/3Common Confusions Zoning can be mistaken for simply dividing land, but it's actually a detailed plan for land use. The new zoning plan includes spaces for parks.