Spot zoning,

Definition of Spot zoning:

1. The redesignation of a small area for a particular use or development as the result of special consideration.

2. A variation of zoning where a parcel of land is zoned for a different purpose than the surrounding area. For example, a building might be zoned for business use, while all of the surrounding area is residential. Spot zoning can be done as a beneficial measure, in order to provide benefit to the surrounding community, but also has been found to be illegal and harmful in other circumstances.