Fall River City Zoning Code
ARTICLE I
Purpose and Authority
§ 86-1 Title.
This chapter, ordained in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 40A of Massachusetts General Laws, shall be known as the "Fall River Zoning Ordinance," or "chapter," herein.
§ 86-2 Purpose.
The purpose of this chapter is to promote the health, safety, convenience and general welfare of the City; to encourage the most appropriate use of land throughout the City; to prevent overcrowding of the land; to conserve the value of the land and buildings; to lessen congestion in the streets; to avoid undue concentration of population; to provide adequate light and air; to facilitate adequate provisions for transportation, water, sewage, schools, parks and other public requirements; and to preserve and increase the amenities of the City, all as set forth in Massachusetts General Laws Chapter 40A, as amended.
§ 86-4 Repeal or modification of chapter; effect on existing permits.
A.
Procedure. This chapter and the Zoning Map that is a part of this chapter shall not be repealed or modified except in conformity with MGL c. 40A, § 5.
B.
Effect on existing permits. Construction or operations under a building or special permit shall conform to any subsequent amendment of this chapter unless the use or construction so authorized is commenced within six months after the issuance of the permit and, in cases involving construction, unless such construction is continued through to completion as continuously and expeditiously as is reasonable.
§ 86-5 Effect on existing ordinances; conflicting regulations.
Nothing contained in this chapter shall be construed as repealing or modifying any existing ordinance or regulation of the City, but this chapter shall be in addition thereto; provided that whenever this chapter imposes greater restrictions upon the construction, alteration, enlargement, reconstruction, raising up, moving or use of buildings, structures or premises than other ordinances or provisions of law, such greater restrictions shall prevail.
§ 86-6 Severability.
The invalidity of any section or provision of this chapter or of any boundary line or district or part thereof, as laid down upon the Zoning Map, shall not affect the validity of any other section or provision of this chapter, or of any other boundary line or district or part thereof, as laid down upon the Zoning Map.
§ 86-7 Authority, applicability and interpretation.
A.
This chapter has been enacted pursuant to authority granted by MGL c. 40A, The Zoning Act, and the Home Rule Amendment, Article 89 of the Massachusetts Constitution.
B.
The provisions of this chapter shall apply to all buildings, structures or land within the boundaries of the City.
C.
In interpreting and applying the provisions of this chapter, the requirements contained herein are declared to be the minimum requirements for the purposes set forth, and also, as further set forth by MGL c. 40A, as amended.