Final answer:
The legal method that a city uses to implement its general plan is through a planning process that results in a master plan. This master plan is put into effect by ordinances controlling zoning, subdivision developments, street plans, public facilities, and building regulations. Constitutional limitations restrict the power of government to regulate land use, including zoning, and the rationale behind zoning is to promote the good of the entire community.
Step-by-step explanation:
The legal method that a city uses to implement its general plan is through a planning process that ultimately results in a master plan. This master plan is put into effect by ordinances controlling zoning, regulation of subdivision developments, street plans, plans for public facilities, and building regulations. Future developers must plan their subdivisions in accordance with the official map or plan.
In addition to the master plan, there has been an increasing emphasis on regional and statewide planning to ensure coordination between neighboring cities. These planning initiatives allow for the creation of a regional plan that offers one comprehensive vision and one set of regulations.
The power of government to regulate land use, including zoning, is restricted by constitutional limitations. Zoning ordinances must be reasonable based on factors such as the need of the municipality, the purpose of the restriction, the location and physical characteristics of the land, the character of the neighborhood, and its effect on the value of the property involved.
The rationale behind zoning is to promote the good of the entire community in accordance with a comprehensive plan.