(a) The city is divided into zoning districts, as shown on the official zoning map, which together with all explanatory matter thereon, is adopted by reference and declared to be a part of this title. The official zoning map as adopted, and as may be hereafter amended, shall be consistent with and used to implement the comprehensive plan.

(b) The official zoning map shall be maintained in the city planning department. The administrative official shall be the custodian of the official zoning map.

(c) When, in accordance with the provisions of this title and RCW 35.63, changes are made in zoning district boundaries, such changes shall be made on the official zoning map promptly after the amendment has been approved by the legislative authority.

(d) No changes shall be made to the official zoning map except in conformity with the procedures set forth in this title. Any unauthorized change of whatever kind by any person or persons shall be considered a violation of this title and punishable as provided under Title 21.

(e) The official zoning map shall be the final authority as to the current zoning status of land in the city. (Ord. 1634, § 15, 2004.)

(1) Boundaries indicated as approximately following the centerline of streets, highways, or alleys shall be construed to follow such centerline;

(2) Boundaries indicated as approximately following platted lot lines shall be construed as following such lot lines;

(3) Boundaries indicated as approximately following municipal boundaries shall be construed as following the municipal boundary;

(4) Boundaries indicated as following railroad lines shall be construed to be midway between the main tracks;

(5) Boundaries indicated as following a floodway and other flood prone area, steep slopes, or shorelines shall be construed to follow such floodway, flood prone area, steep slope, or shoreline. In the event of change in the floodway, flood prone area, steep slope, or shoreline the legislative authority, planning commission or hearing examiner may initiate a map amendment to adjust the boundary according to actual physical location;

(6) Boundaries indicated as approximately following the centerline of rivers, canals, lakes, or other bodies of water shall be construed to follow such centerline;

(7) Boundaries indicated as parallel to, or extensions of, features indicated in subsections (1) through (6) of this section shall be so construed. Distances not specifically indicated on the official zoning map shall be determined by the scale of the map;

(8) Where physical or cultural features existing on the ground are at variance with those shown on the official zoning map, or in other circumstances not covered by subsections (1) through (7) of this section, the administrative official shall interpret the zoning district boundaries. The interpretation of the administrative official may be appealed in accordance with Chapter 10.48. (Ord. 1634, § 17, 2004.)