In their interpretation and application, the provisions of this ordinance shall be held to be minimum requirements, adopted for the promotion of the public health, safety and general welfare. Wherever the requirements of any other lawfully adopted rules, regulations or ordinances, the most restrictive or that imposing the higher standards shall govern.

Whenever a violation of this ordinance occurs, or is alleged to have occurred, any person must file a written complaint, and such a complaint shall state fully the causes and basis thereof and shall be filed with the zoning administrator, who shall record properly such complaint, investigate and take action thereon as provided by this ordinance, and make an answer to the complaint.

Any violation of or any failure to comply with the provisions of this ordinance shall be deemed a misdemeanor and shall be punishable by a fine not to exceed $500.00 or by imprisonment not to exceed 90 days or both. Each day that a violation of this ordinance is continued or permitted to exist without compliance shall constitute a separate offense punishable upon conviction in the manner prescribed in this section provided no person shall be imprisoned for a single but continuing violation of this ordinance for a period of longer than 90 days.

In addition to the criminal sanctions herein provided, the Porter Township Board, after resolution duly adopted, shall have the authority to proceed in any court of competent jurisdiction for the purpose of obtaining an injunction, restraining order, or other appropriate civil proceedings to prevent, enjoin, abate, or remove any violation of this Ordinance.

In addition to any and all remedies set forth in Porter Township ordinances, the township may request the cost of prosecution, the cost of recovery, and the cost of removal shall become a special assessment on the property upon which is the subject matter of the action.

Should any section or provision of this ordinance be declared by a court of competent jurisdiction to be unconstitutional or invalid, such decision shall not affect the validity of the ordinance as a whole, or part thereof other than the part so declared to be unconstitutional or invalid.

A.

The township board shall by resolution establish a schedule of fees, charges and expenses and a collection procedure for permits and certificates of occupancy, appeals applications for special uses, variances, rezoning and other matters pertaining to this ordinance. The schedule of fees shall be posted in the office of the zoning administrator, and may be amended only by the township board.

B.

Until all applicable fees, charges and expenses have been paid in full, no action shall be taken on any application or appeal.