(A) Application: When a proposed use of property is not expressly authorized as a permitted use, or as a conditional use by the regulations of the applicable zone district, an application may be submitted to the planning department for a land use interpretation to determine whether or not the proposed use is similar to those uses permitted or conditionally permitted in the applicable zone district.
(B) Basis For Determination Of Similar Use: The determination of similar use shall constitute a ministerial action. In making a determination of similar use, the planning director, or the planning commission acting on referral or appeal, shall determine that a proposed use is similar to a use or uses expressly authorized in the applicable zoning district or districts if the proposed use meets the following criteria:
1. The use resembles or is of the same basic nature as a use expressly authorized in the applicable zone district in terms of the following:
(a) The activities involved in or equipment or materials employed in the use.
(b) The effects of the use on the surrounding area, such as traffic impacts, noise, dust, odors, vibrations and appearance.
2. The use is consistent with the stated purpose of the applicable district. (Ord. 768-08, 8-19-2008)