The provisions of this ordinance are amended and adopted pursuant to the authority set forth in chapter 1, title 17 of the Mississippi Code of 1972, as amended.

This ordinance shall be known as the Official Zoning Ordinance of Columbus, Mississippi, and may be so cited.

In interpreting and applying this ordinance, its provisions shall be held to be the minimum requirements for the promotion of the public safety, health, convenience and general welfare.

If any section, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this ordinance should be declared invalid for any reason whatsoever, such decision shall not affect the remaining portions of this ordinance, which shall remain in full force and effect, and to this end the provisions of this ordinance are hereby declared severable.