You own a house on land that is subject to local zoning regulations. When you apply for a building permit to enlarge your house, the zoning officials tell you that you will get the permit only if you give half of your backyard to the local parks department. This is probably unconstitutional.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The zoning officials are essentially requiring the property owner to give up their property in order to receive a permit, which may violate the Fifth Amendment's Takings Clause. This clause requires that the government provide just compensation when it takes private property for public use. Additionally, the requirement may not be related to a legitimate government interest or may constitute an arbitrary or discriminatory action, which would violate due process under the Fourteenth Amendment.

You Own a House on Land That Is Subject to Local