A buyer purchased a lot in a new subdivision in which outbuildings were prohibited by a zoning ordinance. The deed also included a restriction forbidding outbuildings. Two years later, the zoning ordinances changed to allow portable storage sheds in the subdivision. Can the buyer legally install a storage shed on the lot?

This option incorrectly suggests that the timing of the zoning ordinance change affects the legality of the deed restriction. While the zoning ordinance can change, the existing deed restriction remains in effect and must be complied with. The change in zoning does not negate the enforceability of the private restriction.

This statement is misleading; in fact, a private deed restriction can indeed be more restrictive than a zoning ordinance. The law allows private property owners to impose stricter limitations on their property than those established by local zoning laws, which is precisely the situation here.

This choice is incorrect as it overlooks the principle that private restrictions can be more stringent than zoning laws. Although zoning ordinances govern land use broadly, they do not automatically override private restrictions that are more limiting, as is the case with the deed restriction prohibiting outbuildings.