(A) Purpose.
(1) The process of dividing open land into home sites, or separate parcels for other uses, is one of the community. Few activities have a more lasting effect upon its appearance and environment. Once the land has been subdivided into urban lots and the streets, homes, and other structures have been constructed, the basic character of this permanent addition to the community has become firmly established. It is then virtually impossible to alter its basic character without substantial expense. In most subdivisions, roads and streets must be maintained and various public services must be provided. The welfare of the entire community is thereby affected in many important respects. It is, therefore, to the interest of the general public, the developer, and the future owners that subdivisions be conceived, designed, and developed in accordance with sound rules and proper standards.
(2) All subdivision of land hereafter submitted for approval shall fully comply in all respects with the regulations set forth herein. It is the purpose of these regulations to:
(a) Encourage well planned, efficient, and attractive subdivisions by establishing adequate standards for design and construction;
(b) Provide for the health and safety of residents by encouraging properly designed streets and adequate sewage and water service;
(c) Place the cost of improvements against those benefitting from their construction;
(d) Secure the rights of the public with respect to public lands and waters; and
(e) Set the minimum requirements necessary to protect the public health, safety, morals, comfort, convenience, and general welfare.
(B) Scope. The rules and regulations governing plats and subdivision of land contained herein shall apply within the city and other land as permitted by state statutes. In the event of overlapping jurisdiction within the prescribed area, the extent of jurisdiction shall be determined and agreed upon between this community and the other governmental units concerned. Except in the case of minor subdivision, this chapter shall not apply to any lot or lots forming a part of a subdivision recorded in the office of the Register of Deed prior to the effective date of this chapter, nor is it intended by this chapter to repeal, annul, or in any way impair or interfere with existing provisions of other laws or ordinances, or with private restrictions placed upon property by deed, covenant, or other private agreement, or with restrictive covenants governing the land.
(Ord. 274, passed 4-15-1997)