9-1-4: PURPOSE:
   A.   Purpose: The purpose of this title is to provide a unified regulatory system for land use in the county dependent upon the concentration of development. It is designed to protect and promote the health, safety, and general welfare of present and future inhabitants of the county.
   B.   Intent: The intent of this title is, as well, to protect both property rights and property values, minimize the adverse impact of development; control the sequence and timing of development; assure that development is maintained properly, requiring for on site and off site public facilities or services; discouraging urban sprawl; requiring strict standards for commercial and residential development, including provisions for affordable housing; and encouraging efficient use of land while maintaining the open space and rural feel of the county by encouraging cluster development where appropriate. This title is further intended to protect the public health, safety, and general welfare by regulating activities and development in hazardous areas.
   C.   Standards: Standards of this title additionally intend to encourage well planned development; to improve land records and resource data; to safeguard the interests of the public, adjacent property owners, developers, and purchasers; and, to assure equitable handling of all proposals by providing uniform procedures and standards. (Ord. 10-06, 8-23-2010)