§ 1.1.1. Purpose and Intent.

The purpose and intent of this Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) for the City of Columbus is to provide for the health, safety morals, convenience, order, prosperity and general welfare of the residents and property owners of the City of Columbus and Muscogee County; to provide to provide development standards, criteria, and regulations consistent with the City's comprehensive plan; and to exercise the planning and zoning authority granted by the applicable provisions of the Constitution of the State of Georgia, the Georgia Planning Law of 1989, and other applicable provisions of the Annotated Code of Georgia. The purpose and intent of this Chapter also are to achieve the benefits listed below.

A.

Health, Safety and Welfare. Protect, provide for, and further the public health, safety and general welfare of the City.

B.

Orderly Development. Consolidate and streamline the development procedures and guide and encourage the orderly and beneficial development of future growth and development of the City consistent with the City's comprehensive plan.

C.

Land Use. Provide for more appropriate use of land throughout the City and to enhance and protect the value of all property within the City.

D.

Light, Air and Privacy. Provide for adequate light, air and privacy; secure safety from fire, flood, and other danger; and prevent overcrowding of the land.

E.

Aesthetics. Protect and enhance the aesthetics and character of all parts of the City.

F.

Public Service. Provide for adequate public services, including roads and transportation, potable water, sanitary sewer, schools, parks and other public requirement.

G.

Value of Land. Protect and conserve the value of land, buildings and improvements and minimize conflicts among uses of land and buildings.

H.

Zoning Districts. Divide the City into districts, restricting and regulating therein the construction, reconstruction, alteration, and use of buildings, structures, and land for residential, commercial, industrial and other specified uses.

I.

Property Development Regulations. Establish building setback lines, regulate the bulk and height of buildings, and provide for related property development regulations.

J.

Greenways and Open Space. Provide for greenways and open spaces, and conserve and preserve environmentally sensitive lands and vegetation.

K.

Traffic. Avoid traffic congestion on streets and eliminate conflicts between pedestrian and vehicular movements.