Under the District Plan Christchurch City is divided into specific zones that only allow certain activities on land uses.
In Living Zone 1 only low density development is permitted and there is a minimum section size of 450 square metres, or up to 22 houses per hectare. These zones are generally located in the outer suburban areas.
In Living Zone 2 medium density development is permitted and the minimum section size is 330 square metres or up to 30 houses per hectare. These zones are generally located closer to the central city or suburban centres.
In Living Zone 3 medium density town-house type developments are permitted and the minimum section size is 300 square metres or at least 30 houses per hectare.