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MCQ Flashcards

7 cards from real AICP practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.

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  1. Under NEPA, which document is required when a federal action may significantly affect the quality of the human environment?

    Answer: Environmental Impact Statement (EIS)

    NEPA requires a full Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) for major federal actions that may significantly affect the human environment; an EA is used to determine whether significance thresholds are met.

  2. Which of the following best describes 'transit-oriented development' (TOD)?

    Answer: Compact, mixed-use development within walking distance of high-quality transit stations

    TOD refers to compact, walkable, mixed-use development clustered within a quarter- to half-mile of transit stations to maximize ridership and reduce auto dependence.

  3. A municipality adopts an inclusionary zoning ordinance requiring 15% affordable units in new residential projects. This is primarily an example of:

    Answer: Inclusionary housing policy

    Inclusionary zoning mandates that a percentage of units in new developments be affordable to lower-income households, using private development to produce affordable housing.

  4. The 'precautionary principle' in environmental planning suggests that:

    Answer: Where there is uncertainty about potential harm, preventive action should be taken

    The precautionary principle holds that lack of full scientific certainty should not be used as a reason to postpone measures to prevent potential environmental harm.

  5. Which housing policy tool provides direct subsidies to low-income renters rather than subsidizing the production of housing units?

    Answer: Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher program

    Section 8 Housing Choice Vouchers provide rental assistance directly to eligible households, allowing them to use vouchers in the private market rather than subsidizing specific housing units.

  6. A 'regulatory taking' requiring just compensation under the Fifth Amendment most clearly occurs when a regulation:

    Answer: Eliminates all economically beneficial use of private property

    Per Lucas v. South Carolina Coastal Council (1992), a regulation constitutes a per se taking requiring compensation when it deprives an owner of all economically beneficial use of their land.

  7. In the context of urban planning history, Robert Moses is most associated with:

    Answer: Automobile-oriented infrastructure development and slum clearance in New York

    Robert Moses shaped mid-20th century New York through massive highway construction, bridge projects, parks, and urban renewal programs that displaced hundreds of thousands of residents.