In order to make this chapter flexible to meet the needs of changing trends in development and new technology, the Planning Commission is authorized to approve the establishment of special land uses. In this way the chapter does not become a rigid document that cannot be altered, but serves as a guideline upon which the Planning Commission may make enlightened judgments, keeping development within the general philosophy of this chapter. Land and structure uses not specifically mentioned in the foregoing text or possessing unique characteristics may be designated as special uses and, as such, may be authorized by the issuance of special land use approval, with such conditions and safeguards attached as may be deemed necessary for the protection of the public welfare. Certain types of uses are required to secure a permit to allow them to be placed in one or more zones in which their uncontrolled occurrence might cause unsatisfactory results of one kind or another. A few uses, such as dumps and junkyards, are inherently so objectionable as to make extra regulations and controls advisable even in the zone in which they are permitted. Others, such as gasoline stations and taverns, must be located with discrimination in relation to their surroundings. All the items listed are proper uses of land but have certain aspects which call for special consideration of each proposal. Because under certain conditions they could be detrimental to the health, safety, or general welfare of the public, the uses listed as special land uses are permitted in certain zones only if granted by the Planning Commission.

In hearing a request for any special land use, the Board of Appeals shall be governed by the following principles and conditions:

The Board of Appeals may, and is hereby empowered to, add to the specific provisions enumerated in this article other provisions that it may deem necessary to protect adjacent properties, the general neighborhood, and the residents and workers therein.