This chapter shall be known as the Zoning Ordinance for Harrisonburg, Virginia.

(Ord. of 4-23-96)

This chapter shall apply to the incorporated territory of the City of Harrisonburg, Virginia. It is the intent of this chapter that the extent of its applicability be automatically changed in accordance with the provisions hereof or provisions of state law which may affect the applicability of this chapter.

(Ord. of 4-23-96)

The zoning regulations and districts as herein established have been made in accordance with a comprehensive plan, to promote, in accordance with present and future needs, the health, safety, morals, order, convenience, prosperity and general welfare of the citizens of Harrisonburg, Virginia, and to provide for efficiency and economy in the process of development; for the appropriate and best use of land, for convenience of access and of traffic and circulation of people and goods; for the appropriate use and occupancy of buildings; for healthful and convenient distribution of population; for protection against overcrowding of land, undue density of populations in relation to the community facilities existing or available, destruction of or encroachment upon historic areas, obstruction of light and air, or loss of life, health or property from fire, flood, panic or other dangers; to encourage good civic design and arrangement; to facilitate the creation of a convenient, attractive and harmonious community and for adequate public utilities, public services and facilities, by regulating and limiting the height and bulk of buildings and structures, the area of yards and other open spaces, and the density of use. They have been made with reasonable consideration, among other things, for the existing use and character of property, the comprehensive plan, to the character of the district and its peculiar suitability for particular uses, to trends of growth or change, and with a view to conserving natural resources and the value of land and building and encouraging the most appropriate use of land throughout the incorporated territory of the City of Harrisonburg, Virginia.

(Ord. of 4-23-96)

In interpreting and applying the provisions of this chapter they shall be held to be the minimum requirements for the promotion of the public safety, health, convenience, comfort, prosperity or general welfare. It is not intended by this chapter to interfere with, or abrogate or annul, any easements, covenants or other agreements between parties; provided, however, that where this chapter imposes a greater restriction upon the use of buildings or premises or upon height of buildings or requires larger open spaces than are imposed or required by other resolutions, ordinances, rules, regulations, or by easements, covenants or agreements the provisions of this chapter shall govern.

(Ord. of 4-23-96)