Land Use & Zoning

A Minnesota city wants to prevent big-box retail stores from locating in a certain area. The most direct legal mechanism would be:

ARefusing to issue building permits on a case-by-case basis
BAdopting a zoning ordinance that prohibits large retail formats in that zone✓ Correct
CRequiring voter approval for each large retail development
DPassing a private deed restriction on all affected parcels

Explanation

Adopting a zoning ordinance that defines and prohibits 'large format retail' or 'big-box retail' in specified zones is the most direct and legally defensible way to prevent such uses. Minnesota cities have broad zoning authority under state enabling legislation.

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