These include streams, rivers and their banks, particularly beautiful landscapes, landscapes of natural or cultural historical value, important sites, historical sites, natural and cultural monuments and habitats for animals and plants worthy of protection.

At the national level, a distinction is made between three zones: Building zones, agricultural zones and protection zones.

Cantonal law may provide for further use zones; for example, there are five types of zones in the Canton of Zurich. In addition to the free zones, building zones, agricultural zones, recreation zones and reserve zones are also defined and regulated as such.