Evidence Tools
MCHbest. Physical Activity.

Overview. Zoning regulations for land use policy include zoning and building codes and other governmental policies and efforts to shape building practices which change the physical environment of cities, towns, and counties. Zoning regulation reforms remove requirements, limitations, or prohibitions associated with exclusionary zoning codes and implement zoning codes which include a focus on building forms and types in the context of the neighborhood.[1, 2] Such regulations often address surrounding design elements such as aesthetic and safety aspects of the physical environment, street continuity and connectivity, residential density, mixed-use development, and the proximity of residential areas to stores, jobs, schools, and recreation in existing neighborhood developments. Efforts to update or revise zoning regulations are often precursors to mixed-use development and Smart Growth initiatives.[3]

Evidence. Scientifically Rigorous Evidence. Strategies based on scientifically rigorous evidence are proven effective across multiple robust studies. While success is highly likely, local impact may vary. Monitor outcomes and use data to tailor these strategies to the community's unique needs.

Access the peer-reviewed evidence through the MCH Digital Library or related evidence source.

Potential Data Sources. Data to support this strategy can be accessed through:

• Building permit and development applications records
• Meeting minutes and public hearing records from planning commissions
• Staff reports from planning departments

Outcome Components. This strategy has shown to have impact on the following outcomes (Read more about these categories):

• Environmental Health. This strategy improves the impact of physical, chemical, and biological factors in the environment on health.
• Health and Health Behaviors/Behavior Change. This strategy improves individuals' physical and mental health and their adoption of healthy behaviors (e.g., healthy eating, physical activity).

Detailed Outcomes. For specific outcomes related to each study supporting this strategy, access the peer-reviewed evidence and read the Intervention Results for each study.

Intervention Type. Policy Development and Enforcement (Read more about intervention types and levels as defined by the Public Health Intervention Wheel).

Intervention Level. Community-Focused

Examples from the Field. Access descriptions of ESMs that use this strategy or aligned components.

Sample ESMs. Here are sample ESMs to use as models for your own measures using the RBA framework (see The Role of Title V in Adapting Strategies).