Which of the following best describes downzoning?

Downzoning is characterized by the restriction of property use to types that require less development. This practice typically involves changing the zoning classification of a particular area to reduce its allowable density or usage intensity. By implementing downzoning, a municipality can limit the scale of development, leading to fewer buildings or smaller structures being permitted, which can help preserve community character, protect the environment, or maintain lower population density in certain areas.

This approach is often taken in response to concerns about overdevelopment, traffic, environmental impacts, or to maintain the aesthetic quality of a neighborhood. While it does lead to greater control over property development, it does not permit increased residential density or facilitate new urban developments, as those trends are contrary to the goals of downzoning. Hence, downzoning reflects a regulatory strategy aimed at reducing development potential, rather than increasing or facilitating it.