Final answer:
The rule that specifies how tall a building can be is known as the maximum building height. This is a part of zoning restrictions that affect the form, dimensions, and the number of buildings allowable on a lot, as well as ensuring light and air access. These rules are essential for balanced urban development and are strongly tied to the character and planning of cities. Option 3 is correct.
Step-by-step explanation:
The rule that specifies how tall a building can be is referred to as the maximum building height. This regulation is often part of zoning laws, which also define things like building setbacks from property lines, including the front yard, rear yard, and side yards. Setback requirements are implemented to ensure adequate space around structures for access, light, or ventilation and help preserve the character of neighborhoods.
The concept of building height restrictions dates back to early 20th-century laws like the 1916 New York zoning law. This led to innovative building designs to ensure sunlight and air could reach the streets below, influencing iconic architecture such as the Chrysler Building and the Rockefeller Center's RCA Building.
Zoning regulations can influence not just the height but also the overall form and dimensions of buildings. They can dictate the number of rooms, the number of buildings on a lot, and even specify if an area is designated for single-family homes or for multi-family dwellings. Building restrictions like these are key to urban planning, as they ensure that cities develop in a balanced and controlled manner.