Zoning was first implemented in the 1920s, and it is one form of a land-use law.

But for several years, the tranquillity has been giving way to a loud and very public fight over the island's strict land-use laws.

But the land-use law apparently is not so clear as to avoid a lengthy dispute.

"The mess created by Oregon's land-use laws led to the passage of this measure," he said.

More recently, 2004's Measure 37 reflects a backlash against such land-use laws.

Critics say the project was pushed through by local officials with disregard for land-use laws.

He said the city was illegally trying to bypass its own land-use laws.

If the land-use law is not followed, he wrote, he would oppose the project.

The court said the community group had also failed to show any violation of land-use laws.

The first land-use laws were also enacted in Bombay during this period.