A. Newly annexed territory. All areas which are annexed to the City after the effective date of this ordinance shall be classified into the zoning district or districts that allow densities and uses that are no greater than those permitted by Maricopa County immediately prior to annexation.

B. Land use map. Upon the annexation of any area, the Planning and Development Department shall prepare a land use map which shall be prima facie evidence of the manner in which a building or land was being used at the time of annexation. The map shall be certified by the Zoning Administrator, after notice by mail to owners of property within the area of annexation and an opportunity for such owners to supplement the information in the map prior to certification.

C. Status of existing uses. Any use or activity conducted contrary to County zoning regulations on the effective date of annexation and not constituting a nonconforming use under the County’s zoning regulations shall not be entitled to be considered a nonconforming use under these regulations. Any use or activity conducted lawfully either as a nonconforming use or as a permitted use shall not be rendered unlawful because of annexation to the City. The City Council may authorize the acquisition of private property by purchase or condemnation for the removal of nonconforming uses and structures in accordance with applicable procedures and regulations established from time to time. (Ord. No. G-3397, 1991; Ord. No. G-5590, 2011; Ord. No. G-5599, 2011)