The provisions set forth in this ordinance have been prepared in accordance with the authority for zoning, granted by the legislature of the State of Arkansas as provided by Act 186 of 1957 [A.C.A. § 14-56-401 et seq.], as amended.

The zoning regulations set forth herein are enacted to promote the health, safety and general welfare of the citizens of Gravette; to prevent the scattering and indiscriminate mixing of uses within the city limits; to lessen traffic congestion; to reduce dangers from fire and other natural hazards; to avoid undue concentration of population; to facilitate adequate provisions of transportation, water sewerage, streets, schools, parks, and other public requirements; to stabilize property values; and to ensure the orderly development of the community.

1.

Jurisdiction. The jurisdiction of this ordinance shall include all land in the city limits of Gravette. This ordinance shall also apply to any land added to the city limits, for whatever reason, after the adoption of this ordinance.

2.

Establishments of districts. The districts provided in section 3 are hereby established for the City of Gravette.

3.

Official zoning map. The city hereby divided into zones, or districts, as shown on the official zoning map, which together with all explanatory matter thereon, is hereby adopted by reference and declared to be part of this ordinance.

a.

The official zoning map shall be identified by the signature of the mayor attested by the city clerk, and bearing the seal of the city under the following words: "This is to certify that this is the Official Zoning Map referred to in Ordinance Number ___ of the City of Gravette," together with the date of the adoption of this ordinance.

b.

No part of a yard, or other open spaces, or off-street parking or loading space required about or in connection with any building for the purpose of complying with this ordinance, shall be included as part of a yard, open space or off-street parking or loading space similarly required for any other building.

c.

No yard or lot existing at the time of passage of this ordinance shall be reduced in dimensions of area below the minimum requirement set for herein. Yards or lots created after the effective date of this ordinance shall meet at least the minimum requirements established by this ordinance.

4.

Interpretation of new or omitted uses.

a.

When a new use is introduced or a use is found omitted from section 4, the planning commission will hold a public hearing, determine which districts the use belongs in and recommend to the city council an ordinance charge.

5.

Interpretation of terms.

a.

The word "shall" is mandatory; the word "may" is permissive.

b.

The word "lot" includes the word "plot" or "parcel."

c.

The present tense includes the future tense, the singular number includes the plural, and the plural number includes the singular.