The regulations in this chapter shall be subject to the interpretations and exceptions set forth in this article.

(Code 1979, § 17.52.010)

Essential services shall be permitted as authorized and regulated by law and other ordinances of the city. It is the intention hereof to exempt such essential services from the application of this chapter.

(Code 1979, § 17.52.020)

The provisions of this chapter shall not be so construed as to interfere with the temporary use of any property as a voting place in connection with a municipal or other public election.

(Code 1979, § 17.52.030)

The height limitations of this chapter shall not apply to farm buildings, chimneys, church spires, flag poles, public monuments, or wireless transmission towers; provided, however, that the board of appeals may specify a height limit for any such structure when such structure requires authorization as a use permitted on special approval or under article V of this chapter.

(Code 1979, § 17.52.040)

Any lot existing and of record at the time the ordinance codified in this chapter became effective may be used for any principal use, other than uses permitted on special approval for which special lot area requirements are specified in this chapter, permitted in the district in which such lot is located whether or not such lot complies with the lot area requirements of this chapter; provided, that all requirements other than lot area requirements prescribed in this chapter are complied with; and provided, that not more than one dwelling unit shall occupy any lot except in conformance with the provisions of this chapter for required lot area for each dwelling unit.

(Code 1979, § 17.52.050)

In calculating the area of a lot that adjoins an alley or lane, for the purpose of applying lot area requirements of this chapter, one-half the width of such alley abutting the lot shall be considered as part of such lot.

(Code 1979, § 17.52.060)

An existing porch that currently projects into the front yard requirement by not more than eight feet may be replaced in the exact same size and manner as prior to reconstruction. An existing porch that currently projects into the rear yard to a point that is 15 feet or more from the rear property line may be replaced in the exact same size and manner as prior to reconstruction. Subject to compliance with all other applicable provisions of this Code, newly constructed front porches and decks may project into a required front yard for a distance not exceeding eight feet and newly constructed back porches and decks may project into the rear yard up to a point that is 15 feet or more from the rear property line.

(Code 1979, § 17.52.070; Ord. No. 2005-1, § 17.52.070, 2-21-2005)

Architectural features, not including vertical projections, may extend or project into a required side yard not more than three inches for each one foot of width of such side yard, and may extend or project into a required front yard or rear yard not more than three feet. Architectural features shall not include those details which are normally demountable. Terraces, wheelchair ramps and ornamental features which do not rise more than four feet above the ground may project into a required yard.

(Code 1979, § 17.52.080; Ord. No. 2008-11, 11-17-2008)