Permaculture zones are areas in a permaculture system that are designed to maximize efficiency and productivity. These zones are defined by their proximity to the center of the system, with the most frequently used and intensive areas located closest to the center.

There are typically five permaculture zones, with zone 0 located at the center of the system and zone 4 located at the outer edge. However, the number and size of zones may vary depending on the specific needs and goals of the system.

Permaculture zones can be used to optimize the use of resources and minimize the amount of work required to maintain the system. For example, zone 0 may include the home and immediate surroundings, while zone 1 may include the vegetable garden and chicken coop. Zones 2 and 3 may include larger gardens, pasture, and orchards, while zone 4 may include woodlands and wild areas for foraging and recreation. By designing the system in this way, the permaculturist can minimize the amount of time and energy required to manage the system, while maximizing the yield and productivity of the land.

In a home garden, zone 0 may include the house and immediate surroundings, while zone 1 may include raised beds or containers for vegetables and herbs, as well as a small chicken coop or beehive. Zone 2 may include fruit trees, berry bushes, and larger vegetable gardens, while zone 3 may include a compost pile and space for a small greenhouse or hoop house. Zone 4 may include a wooded area for foraging or a small pond for irrigation and wildlife habitat.

The use of permaculture zones can help to increase the efficiency and productivity of a system, while reducing the amount of work and resources required to maintain it. By designing the system in this way, the permaculturist can also reduce the impact on the environment and create a more sustainable and resilient ecosystem.