A commercial zone is an area designated in a municipality's zoning bylaw where commercial uses—retail stores, offices, restaurants, services, and related businesses—are permitted. Commercial zoning typically restricts residential use (though mixed-use zones may allow both) and prohibits heavy industrial activities. Different commercial zone categories may exist for various business types: general commercial for a wide range of retail, office commercial for professional services, or highway commercial for car-oriented businesses. Zoning regulations within commercial districts control factors like building height, parking requirements, signage, and operating hours. Commercial zone locations shape where business activity occurs in a community.