To provide a zoning map and associated regulations to guide the physical development of the City in such a manner as to progressively achieve the general arrangement of the land uses described and depicted in the Hanford General Plan;

To foster a wholesome, serviceable and attractive living environment, the beneficial development of areas that exhibit conflicting patterns of use, and the stability of existing land uses that conform with the objectives, policies, principles and standards of the General Plan;

To prevent excessive population densities and the overcrowding of land with structures;

To promote a safe, effective traffic circulation system, the provision of adequate off-street parking and truck loading facilities, and the appropriate location of community facilities;

To protect and promote appropriately located commercial and industrial activities in order to preserve and strengthen the City's economic base;

To protect and enhance real property values and the City's natural assets;

To ensure unimpeded development of such new urban expansion that is logical, desirable and in conformance with the objectives and policies of the General Plan; and

To provide and protect open space in accordance with the policies of the Open Space Element of the General Plan.

In the event of any conflict between the provisions of this title, the most restrictive requirement shall control.

In the event of any conflict between the requirements of this title and standards adopted as part of any specific plan, the requirements of the specific plan shall control.

In the event of any conflict between requirements of this title and other regulations of the City, the most restrictive requirement shall control, as determined by the City.

It is not intended that the requirements of this title shall interfere with, repeal, abrogate or annul any easement, covenant, or other agreement that existed when this zoning ordinance became effective. This zoning ordinance applies to all land uses and development regardless of whether it imposes a greater or lesser restriction on the development or use of structures or land than an applicable private agreement or restriction, without affecting the applicability of any agreement or restriction. The City shall not enforce any private covenant or agreement unless it is a party to the covenant or agreement. Where a requirement of a private covenant or agreement directly conflicts with a requirement in this title, the City shall enforce the requirements of this title.