§ 346. Zoning Compliance Permit.

346.1.   Zoning Compliance Permit Required.

Except as otherwise specifically provided in this chapter, it shall be unlawful to conduct any of the following activities until the Department Director or designee has issued a zoning compliance permit confirming that such activity complies with the applicable provisions of this chapter.

A.

Make a change of use, as the term is defined in Chapter 2 of this Code, of any land or structure, or to extend any use or any lot on which exists a nonconforming use.

B.

Establish any business, profession or occupation, or to change the location of a business, profession or occupation which is subject to an occupational license (local business tax receipt).

346.2.   Review Procedures.

A.

Application Submittal. An application for a zoning compliance permit shall be submitted to the Department Director.

B.

Department Director Review. Upon receipt of a completed application, the Department Director or designee shall cause an analysis to be made as expeditiously as possible by qualified representatives of the County and such other agencies or officials as appear appropriate in the circumstances of the case, to determine compliance with the applicable provisions of this chapter. Final action shall be based on findings as to compliance with all applicable provisions of this chapter. The permit may be approved, approved subject to conditions, or denied.

C.

Actions Subsequent to Decision. In the case of approval or approval with conditions, the Department Director or designee shall issue the zoning compliance permit. In the case of denial of an application, the applicant shall be notified as soon as possible, in writing, of the reasons for such denial.

346.3.   Expiration.

If the use, construction or activity authorized by approval of an application for a zoning compliance permit is not commenced within six (6) months of the date of issuance of the permit, or within such further time stipulated in such permit, the zoning compliance permit shall automatically expire. Any other approval, grant, certificate, building permit or special permit issued or granted by the County pursuant to or in conjunction with the zoning compliance permit shall become null and void unless any required work thereon is substantially underway or lawful use has begun within six (6) months after the effective date of the issuance of such approval, certificate, grant, building permit or special permit, unless otherwise provided in this chapter. The Department Director or designee shall determine whether the use, construction or activity is substantially underway or has begun upon review of substantial competent evidence.