This title and maps referred to in this title shall be known and cited as the "Columbus Zoning Ordinance" for the incorporated limits of the city of Columbus and extraterritorial area authorized by state statute.

(Ord. 298 § 1 (part) (11.02.011), 1997)

(Ord. No. 354, § 1(Exh. A), 10-15-2018)

The zoning regulations, classifications and districts as set forth in this title have been adopted in accordance with 76-2-301 to 76-2-328, 76-1-101 to 76-1-606, and 76-2-201 to 76-2-228, MCA, and the master planning process, and have been deemed necessary to lessen congestion in the streets, prevent overcrowding, avoid undue concentration of population, encourage the most appropriate use of land based on the character of each zoning district and its peculiar suitability for particular uses, to conserve the value of buildings, to stabilize property values, to promote the interest of health, safety and general welfare, to secure safety from fire, panic and other dangers, to provide adequate open space for light and air, and to facilitate the economic provision of adequate transportation, water, sewer, schools, parks, and other public requirements.

The Columbus city council further declares this zoning title adopted for the following specific purposes:

A.

To promote and guide development consistent with the goals and objectives of the comprehensive planning process;

B.

To prevent waste and inefficiency in land use;

C.

To encourage innovations in residential development and renewal so that the needs of the community for housing may be met by greater variety in type and design of dwellings and by conservation of open space; and

D.

To provide adequate land and space for the development of commercial and industrial uses and to encourage such development in locations determined to benefit the community at large and in a manner consistent with the goals and objectives of the Columbus area master planning process.

(Ord. 298 § 1 (part) (11.02.012), 1997)

(Ord. No. 354, § 1(Exh. A), 10-15-2018)

A.

The Columbus zoning title applies to all lands in the incorporated limits of the city of Columbus, and extraterritorial areas authorized by state statutes.

B.

In their interpretation and application, the provisions of this title may be regarded as the minimum requirements for the protection of the public health, safety, comfort, prosperity and welfare.

C.

The title is not intended to abrogate or annul any building permit, use permit, variance or other lawful permit issued prior to the effective date of this title.

(Ord. 298 § 1 (part) (11.02.013), 1997)

(Ord. No. 354, § 1(Exh. A), 10-15-2018)

In their interpretation and application, the provisions of this title shall be held to be minimum requirements adopted for the promotion of the health, safety, morals and general welfare of the community. Wherever the requirements of this title are at variance with the requirements of any other lawfully adopted rules or regulations, those imposing the higher standards shall govern.

(Ord. 298 § 1 (part) (11.02.014), 1997)