This Chapter 27 is enacted for the following purposes: to promote the health, safety, morals and general welfare of the inhabitants of West Norriton Township by lessening congestion in the streets, securing safety from fire, panic and other dangers; providing adequate light and air; preventing the overcrowding of land; avoiding undue concentration of population; facilitating the adequate provision of transportation, water, sewerage, schools parks, and other public requirements; conserving the value of buildings, and encouraging the most appropriate use of land.

From and after August 8, 1952, the use of all land and every building or portion of a building erected, altered with respect to height and area, added to, or relocated, and every use within a building or use accessory thereto, in West Norriton Township shall be in conformity with the provisions of this Chapter 27. Any existing building or structure and any existing use of building or land not in conformity with the regulations herein prescribed shall be regarded as nonconforming but may be continued, extended, or changed subject to the special regulations herein provided with respect to nonconforming buildings or uses.

In interpreting and applying the provisions of this Chapter 27, they shall be held to be the minimum requirements for the promotion of the public health, safety, comfort, convenience and general welfare. Where the provisions of this Chapter 27 impose greater restrictions that those of any statute, other ordinance, or regulation, the provisions of this Chapter 27 shall be controlling. Where the provisions of any statute, other ordinance or regulation impose greater restrictions than this Chapter 27, the provisions of such statute, other ordinance or regulation shall be controlling.

This Chapter 27 shall be known and may be cited as the "West Norriton Township Zoning Ordinance of 1952."

Certain words and definitions in this Chapter 27 shall be construed to have the meanings indicated in § 27-2001.