Real Estate Glossary

Letter Z

Zanja (Spanish)An irrigation ditch.

Zero Interest MortgageA note and mortgage under which interest accrues but is not paid until the end of the term of the loan.

Zero Lot LineThe construction of a building on any of the boundary lines of a lot. Usually built on the front line, such as a store built to the sidewalk. See also: Zero Side Yard.

Zero Side YardThe building of a subdivision with each house built on a side boundary line. This gives more usable yard space on a narrow lot. An easement for maintenance is given over a portion of the lot adjoining each house.

Zone(1) An area of a county or city in which the use of the land is restricted by law (zoning ordinance). (2) An area designated by a number for the delivery of mail. Zip codes incorporate the zones.

ZoningThe division of a city or county by legislative regulations into areas (zones), specifying the uses allowable for the real property in these areas.

Zoning Board Of AppealsBy issuing variances protects landowners from the unfair application of zoning laws in particular circumstances. Hears appeals from the decisions of zoning enforcement officers and building inspectors when interpretations of zoning ordinances are involved.

Zoning MapA map of a community showing the zones of permitted use under zoning ordinances.

Zoning OrdinanceA law (generally at the city or county level) controlling the use of land and construction of improvements in a given area (zone).

Zoning VarianceSee: Variance.

ZygocephalumIn civil law an inaccurate measure of land. The area of land a yoke of oxen could plow in one day.