(a) Purpose. The purpose of this section is to generally state and summarize the uses and activities concerning land which are regulated by this title and to generally state and outline the manner of their regulation. This section is not intended to control over the more detailed provisions contained in this title.

(b) Generally. The use of land is regulated by this title. "Use" includes, by definition of this title, alterations to land itself, occupancy of land, all accessory uses, and associated structures and site improvements, or any combination thereof. (See Appendix A defining "use," "accessory use," and "structure.")

This title regulates uses in two ways:

(c) New and Existing Uses Regulated. Both uses established before and after adoption of this title are regulated, but are treated differently depending on their status under this title. Totally new and different uses are reviewed under Class 1, 2 or 3 review and if approved are called "approved uses." Previous uses whose principal use would be permitted in the zoning district in which they are located are called "existing uses." Existing uses are allowed to continue even though they have not been through the Class 1, 2 or 3 review procedures of this title and may not fully comply with the development standards of this title. Such uses may be reestablished as they previously existed if damaged or destroyed (See Chapter 10.36). Previously established uses which were legally established prior to the adoption of this title, but which have a principal use which would not be permitted in the zoning district in which it is located, are called "nonconforming uses." Such uses are allowed to continue but are subject to more restrictions. (See Chapter 10.36)

(d) Changes and Alterations to Uses and Developments. Changes and alterations to approved, existing, or nonconforming uses or developments are also regulated by this title and are called "modifications." "Modifications" are to be reviewed using the normal Class 1, 2 or 3 review process contained in this title. Changes and alterations to nonconforming uses are regulated by Chapter 10.36.

(e) Permits. No use or development, or modification of use or development, as those terms are defined, may be established, placed, performed, constructed or implemented, in whole or in part, without Class 1, 2 or 3 review and approval and compliance with any permit conditions imposed during such review and approval. The following uses, developments and modifications are exempt from Class 1, 2 or 3 review procedures but may be subject to other permits and approvals, permits fees and permit requirements (i.e., building permits, shorelines management permits, environmental review, business licenses, etc.):

Public Provisions. The provisions of this title are not intended to interfere with, abrogate, or annul any other rule, regulation, statute, or other provision of law. Where any provision of this title imposes restrictions different from those imposed by any other rule, regulation, statute, or other provision of law, whichever provisions are more restrictive, or impose higher standards, shall control.

Private Provisions. The provisions of this title are not intended to abrogate any easement, covenant or any other private agreement, or restriction; provided, that where the provisions of this title are more restrictive or impose higher standards or regulations than such easement, covenant, or other private agreement or restriction, the requirements of this title shall control. (Ord. 1634, § 12, 2004.)