Who establishes zoning ordinances?

The federal government does not establish zoning ordinances, as zoning is a matter of local governance. Federal regulations may influence land use through overarching laws (such as environmental regulations), but they do not dictate specific zoning practices or policies at the local level.

While regional councils may provide guidance or planning assistance, they typically do not have the authority to enact zoning ordinances. Their role is often advisory, and actual zoning decisions are made by local governing bodies that have the jurisdiction over land use within their respective areas.

Individual states set the legal framework for zoning practices and may establish state-level land-use laws; however, the implementation and administration of zoning ordinances are carried out at the local level. States do not directly create zoning ordinances for individual municipalities or counties, which are responsible for local zoning regulations.