> ## Documentation Index > Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.shovels.ai/llms.txt > Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further. # Decision Categories > Understanding the different types of zoning and land use decisions tracked by Shovels, from spot rezonings to zoning code modifications. Shovels Decisions are categorized by the type of municipal action they represent. Understanding these categories helps you filter for the decisions most relevant to your use case. ## Primary Categories ### Spot Rezoning A zoning change applied to a specific property or small group of parcels. Spot rezonings are typically initiated by property owners or developers seeking to change what can be built on their land. **Examples:** * Changing a single-family residential lot to allow multifamily development * Converting a commercial parcel to mixed-use * Rezoning an industrial site for residential development **Why it matters:** Spot rezonings often signal imminent development activity on that specific property. ### Area Rezoning A zoning change applied to a larger geographic area, often initiated by the municipality as part of a comprehensive planning effort. **Examples:** * Rezoning an entire corridor for transit-oriented development * Upzoning a neighborhood to allow higher density * Creating a new overlay district for a downtown area **Why it matters:** Area rezonings indicate broader market shifts and can affect property values across many parcels. ### Zoning Code Modification Changes to the zoning regulations themselves, rather than the zoning designation of specific properties. These modify what's allowed within existing zones. **Examples:** * Adjusting height limits in commercial zones * Adding accessory dwelling units (ADUs) as a permitted use * Modifying parking requirements citywide **Why it matters:** Code modifications can unlock development potential across all properties in affected zones without individual rezonings. ### Special Use Permit Permission to conduct a specific activity that isn't automatically allowed in a zone but may be approved with conditions. Also called conditional use permits in some jurisdictions. **Examples:** * Operating a restaurant with outdoor seating in a residential area * Building a cell tower in a commercial zone * Running a daycare facility in a mixed-use building **Why it matters:** Special use permits often precede specific business or development activity at a known location. ## Subcategories Decisions may also include subcategories that provide additional context: | Subcategory | Description | | ---------------------------------- | ------------------------------------------------------- | | **Inclusionary Zoning** | Requirements or incentives for affordable housing units | | **Conditional Use** | Approval contingent on meeting specific conditions | | **Planned Unit Development (PUD)** | Flexible zoning for master-planned projects | | **Variance** | Exception to specific zoning requirements | | **Historic Overlay** | Special regulations for historic preservation | ## Filtering by Category When searching for decisions, you can filter by category to focus on the types most relevant to your needs: * **Development tracking:** Focus on Spot Rezoning and Special Use Permits * **Market analysis:** Include Area Rezoning and Zoning Code Modifications * **Comprehensive monitoring:** Include all categories Category names may vary slightly by jurisdiction. Shovels normalizes these into consistent categories while preserving the original terminology in the decision details. ## Related Articles * [What are Shovels Decisions?](/docs/knowledge-base/data/decisions/overview) * [Decision data fields](/docs/knowledge-base/data/decisions/data-fields) * [From decision to permit](/docs/knowledge-base/data/decisions/decision-to-permit)