A. Purpose: The zoning clearance permit is a permit issued by the zoning administrator which states that a particular development meets all of the requirements of the zoning title. It is not a building permit and does not authorize construction, it simply clears the land and structure in terms of zoning and authorizes the building inspector to issue the building permit. This permit also provides a good check for the applicant in that any irregularities can be eliminated before the detailed plans are prepared.
B. Existing Buildings: Any building, structure or use lawfully existing at the time of enactment of this title may be continued even though such building, structure or use does not conform with the provisions of this title. However, no structural alteration shall be made, nor shall the use of any land or building or other structure be changed without a zoning clearance permit issued authorizing such structural alteration or use change as being in compliance with the provisions of this title.
C. Application For Permit: An application for a zoning clearance permit shall be made to the zoning administrator by the owner or proposed occupant of the building or land to be occupied or used, and said application shall state the location and legal description of said property and set out in detail the character and nature of the use to be conducted thereon. Within three (3) days, the zoning administrator shall grant or deny said zoning clearance permit in accordance with the terms of this title.
D. Accompanying Materials: All applications for zoning clearance permits shall be accompanied by a plat plan, drawn to scale on suitable paper, showing the actual dimensions of the lot to be built upon, and the size and location of the building to be erected and such other information as may be necessary to satisfy the requirements of these regulations. (Ord., 11-1-1983)
E. Fees: Zoning clearance permits shall not be issued until a fee of fifteen dollars ($15.00) shall have been paid. (Ord., 11-1-1983; amd. 2005 Code)
F. Penalty: Any persons, firm or corporation violating any provision of this section is guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be fined not less than twenty dollars ($20.00) nor more than two hundred dollars ($200.00), not including court costs, for each day the violation exists. Each day constitutes a separate offense. (Ord. 3036, 3-5-1996)