The purpose of this title is to divide the city into zones or districts, restrict and regulate therein the location, erection, construction, reconstruction, alteration and use of buildings, structures and land for trade, industry, residence and other specified uses; to regulate the intensity of the use of lot areas, and to regulate and determine the area of open spaces surrounding such buildings; to establish building lines and the location of buildings designed for specified industrial, business, residential and other uses within such areas; to fix standards to which buildings or structures incompatible with the character of such districts, respectively; to prevent additions to and alterations or remodeling of existing buildings or structures in such a way as to avoid the restrictions and limitations lawfully imposed hereunder; to limit congestion in the public streets by providing for off street parking and loading and unloading of vehicles; providing for the gradual elimination of nonconforming uses of land, buildings and structures; and prescribing penalties for the violation of this title; to secure safety from fire, panic or other dangers; to provide adequate light and air; to prevent the overcrowding of the land; to conserve the taxable value of land and buildings throughout the city; and to promote the public health, safety and general welfare of the present and future inhabitants of the city. (Ord., 9-3-1996; amd. 2006 Code)