I'd say it's regulation in general. That can include tax and business regulation, or code permits and environmental permits, or local/state laws restricting hobbies/life. Zoning is just one part, and mostly applicable to specific high density areas. On the reasons for not wanting to live in CA, zoning/NIMBYism is low on the list. Political environment (tax, spending, specific programs, crime, restrictive laws, etc) would be much higher IMO.