1341.02 CERTIFICATE OF ZONING COMPLIANCE.

   It shall be unlawful to use or occupy or permit the use or occupancy of any building or premises, or both, or part thereof, hereafter created, erected, changed, converted, or wholly or partly altered or enlarged in its use or structure until a certificate of zoning compliance shall have been issued therefor by the Zoning Officer, stating that the proposed use of the building or land conforms to the requirements of this Zoning Ordinance.

   (a)   Nonconformities. No nonconforming structure or use shall be maintained, renewed, changed, or extended until a certificate of zoning compliance shall have been issued by the Zoning Officer. The certificate of zoning compliance shall state specifically wherein the nonconforming use differs from the provisions of this Zoning Ordinance; provided, that upon enactment or amendment of this Zoning Ordinance, owners or occupants of nonconforming uses or structures shall have three months to apply for certificates of zoning compliance. Failure to make such application within three months shall be presumptive evidence that the property was in conforming use at the time of enactment or amendment of this Zoning Ordinance.

   (b)   Permits. No permit for erection, alteration, moving, or repair of any building shall be issued until an application has been made for a certificate of zoning compliance, and the certificate shall be issued in conformity with the provisions of this Zoning Ordinance upon completion of the work.

   (c)   Temporary Certificate. A temporary certificate of zoning compliance may be issued by the Zoning Officer for a period not exceeding six months during alterations or partial occupancy of a building pending its completion, provided that such temporary certificate may require such conditions and safeguards as will protect the safety of the occupants and the public.

   (d)   Record of Certificates. The Zoning Officer shall maintain a record of all certificates of zoning compliance, and copies shall be furnished at cost upon request. Failure to obtain a certificate of zoning compliance shall be a violation of this Zoning Ordinance and punishable under the provisions of this Zoning Ordinance.
(1977 Code Title 4A.)