Application and Issues of Minimum Lot Size Regulation by Zoning Area in the Wards of Tokyo

The purpose of this paper is to clarify the application and challenges of minimum site area regulations based on zoning in Tokyo’s wards. The study highlights differences in these regulations and the factors behind them, using interviews with local governments and City Planning Council meeting records. It also identifies concerns related to the application of these regulations. The findings are divided into two categories: regulation establishment and application. For regulation establishment, the paper discusses guideline evaluation, criteria for strengthening regulations, and objectives for handling non-conforming lots. For regulation application, it addresses zoning assessments, adjustments, and land use restrictions. The paper concludes with proposals to address these challenges and offers key considerations for future regulations or reviews, aiming to enhance the effectiveness of minimum site area regulations in Tokyo’s wards.