What is the primary difference between zoning and easements in real estate?

The primary difference between zoning and easements lies in their functions and applications concerning land. Zoning is a regulatory framework established by local governments to control land uses in specific areas. It dictates how land can be used, including residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural purposes, as well as parameters such as building height, density, and setbacks. This serves to promote organized growth, ensure safety and welfare, and manage the community's overall land use.

In contrast, easements are legal rights granted to one party to use another party's land for a specific purpose. An easement does not change the ownership of the property but allows certain uses, such as access to utilities, right-of-way for transportation, or access to a property. This means that easements grant specific usage rights rather than regulating overall land use like zoning does.

Thus, the answer correctly identifies that zoning governs the broader scope of land use while easements focus on granting particular usage rights, highlighting their different purposes in real estate law.