Trace in a zone with same net?

[nickmBY]

Hi there!
I want to have a trace (GNDA) within a zone of the same net. Why? Sensitive signals should have a dedicated return path according to EMC rules.
Possible solution 1: define a cutout in the zone and place the trace there. Well, doable, but annoying.
Possible solution 2: Assign a new netclass for the return path. Doable, but I don’t see how I could neatly represent this in the schematics.
Possible solution 3 (close to solution 2): separate the net with a 0-Ohm resistor. As I see now, this would be the cleanest way. But I fear that that resistor will ruin my budget (just kidding).

Looking at the layout, the solution is so simple and close. Just put a trace there and be done. Of course, KiCAD doesn’t do what I mean.
Is there something like assigning a high priority to the trace and KiCAD treats it like it would with a different net?

TIA,
Nick

[eelik]

You can use a net tie symbol + footprint, you can find NetTie examples in the KiCad libraries. They are like 0 ohm resistors except made with copper, so you can make your own shape.

You can also add a special custom rule in the board setup where you use same-net clearance between track and zone. It still needs a rule area, so it may or may not be less or more annoying than just using a cutout or keepout rule area. The “con” of a custom rule compared with a simple keepout is that you can adjust the track without adjusting the rule area.