What is a zoning code in the first place?

A zoning code is a regulatory document that gives local governments control over land use in their communities by defining what can be built where.

Typically, a local community will create a vision for its future through a long-range plan (comprehensive plan, town plan, small area plan, etc.). The community’s zoning code is the legal tool that implements that vision over time as land is developed or redeveloped.

We've found this five-minute video from Planetizen does a great job of explaining what zoning codes are.