SEC. 12.31. INTERPRETATION – PURPOSE

(Amended by Ord. No. 141,821, Eff. 5/24/71.)

In interpreting and applying the provisions of this chapter, they shall be held to be the minimum requirements for the promotion of the public health, safety, comfort, convenience and general welfare. It is not intended by this chapter to interfere with or abrogate or annul any easement, covenant or other agreement between parties. Where this chapter imposes a greater restriction upon the use of buildings or land, or upon the height of buildings, or requires larger open spaces than are imposed or required by other ordinances, rules, regulations or by easements, covenants or agreements, the provisions of this chapter shall control. Provided, that such provisions shall not apply to any variance or exception granted prior to the effective date of this article: (a) by ordinance pursuant to the provisions of Ordinances Nos. 42,666 (N.S.), 66,750, 74,140 or Chapter I of the Los Angeles Municipal Code, and which variance or exception has been utilized and not repealed by Section 12.27 B.6. of this chapter; (b) by determination of the Administrator or Board pursuant to the provisions of Chapter I of said Code; and (c) by determination of the former Board of City Planning Commissioners pursuant to the provisions of Ordinance No. 74,145 or Chapter I of said Code. Provided, further, that such provisions shall not be interpreted or construed as interfering with the continuation of those existing specific uses which heretofore were required by Ordinance to be located in the following special districts:

(a) Cemetery Districts – Ordinance No. 19,534 (N.S.);
(b) Undertaking Districts – Ordinance No. 31,746 (N.S.);
(c) Public Camp Districts – Ordinance No. 44,434 (N.S.);
(d) Mental Sanitarium Districts – Ordinance No. 58,647; and
(e) Rabbit and Poultry Slaughter House District – Ordinance No. 65,050.

In no case, however, shall any of the above uses be extended or expanded onto property not so used at the time this article became effective.