In their interpretation and application, the provisions of this chapter shall be considered as the minimum requirements to promote and to protect public health, safety, comfort, convenience, prosperity, and other aspects of the general welfare, and in particular:

Whenever any provision of this chapter and any other provision of law, whether set forth in this chapter or in any other law, ordinance, or resolution of any kind, impose overlapping or contradictory regulations over the use of land, or over the use or bulk of buildings or other structures, or contain any restrictions covering any of the same subject matter, that provision which is more restrictive or imposes higher standards or requirements shall govern.

In all cases where a zoning permit has been lawfully issued on the basis of an application showing complete plans for the proposed construction of a new building or other structure, or for an enlargement of an existing building or other structure which requires construction of foundation, and the adoption of this chapter or for any subject amendment thereto would make the completed building or other structures nonconforming or noncomplying, construction may nevertheless be continued in accordance with the zoning permit and a certificate of compliance may be issued for such nonconforming or noncomplying building or other structure.

This chapter is not intended to abrogate or annul any easement, covenant, or any other private agreement.

It is hereby declared to be the legislative intent that if any provision or provisions of this chapter or the application thereof to any building or other structure or tract of land are declared by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid or ineffective in whole or in part, or to be inapplicable to any person or situation, the effect of such decision shall be limited to the provision or provisions which are expressly stated in the decision to be invalid or ineffective, or the zoning lot, building or other structure, or tract of land immediately involved in the controversy. All other provisions of this chapter shall continue to be separately and fully effective, and the application of any such provision to other persons or situations shall not be affected.

The ordinance entitled "The Zoning Ordinance for the Town of Stafford," adopted on October 12, 1964, together with all changes and amendments thereto, is hereby repealed and declared to be of no effect.