Authority for and basic structure of land use regulations (including zoning districts and permits, subdivision, and innovative development review schemes). Adoption and amendment of regulations (including procedural requirements, spot and contract zoning, referenda). Application and administration of regulations (variances, appeals, special and conditional uses, vested rights, nonconformities). Constitutional issues (particularly takings, due process, and First Amendment considerations). Special topics (including growth management, historic preservation, and natural resource protection). Note: course coverage provides survey of law across the nation, but is supplemented North Carolina specific information in order to give point of reference involving a single jurisdiction.