1. the act or process of rezoning land to allow only lower-density or less intensive development than previously permitted
Usage: urban planning and real estate term; often used in discussions of land-use policy and community development

Examples

• The city council approved downzoning in the historic neighborhood to preserve its character.
• Downzoning reduced the maximum building height from 12 stories to 6 stories.
• Environmental groups supported the downzoning proposal to limit commercial expansion.
• The downzoning decision prevented the developer from building a large shopping mall.
• Residents celebrated the downzoning as a victory for protecting green space.
• Downzoning can decrease property values for landowners hoping to build at higher densities.