Final answer:
Building codes are regulations focused on building design, materials, and safety, ensuring the safe construction and inhabitability of buildings. Zoning ordinances regulate land use and help municipalities control property development. Both sets of regulations work together to protect inhabitants and maintain standards in construction and property use.
Step-by-step explanation:
A set of regulations pertaining to building design, materials, safety, sanitation, and structure is known as Building codes. These are essential for ensuring safe construction and inhabitability of buildings.
Zoning ordinances, on the other hand, regulate the use of land and categorize it into residential, commercial, and industrial districts. Local governments implement these codes and regulations to control and direct the development of property, balancing property development with public health, safety, and general welfare.
Building codes typically require features such as running water, ventilation and heating systems, structural safety, smoke detectors, and proper electrical wiring. These codes exist not only to frustrate developers but to safeguard the inhabitants of buildings. While these regulations might be perceived as costly, they serve to protect safety and maintain standards.
The planning of new development often involves adherence to a master plan, which includes zoning regulations that define what structures can be built, and where, as well as more specific restrictions like building height, number of rooms, and required parking spaces.