1. (a) Zoning regulations and boundaries may be amended or repealed.

2. (b)

   1. (1) If the purpose and effect of a proposed map amendment is to change a zoning classification, the legislative body shall make findings of fact that address:

      1. (i) population change;
      2. (ii) the availability of public facilities;
      3. (iii) present and future transportation patterns;
      4. (iv) compatibility with existing and proposed development for the area;
      5. (v) the recommendation of the planning commission; and
      6. (vi) the relationship of the proposed amendment to the local jurisdiction's plan.

   2. (2) The legislative body may grant the amendment to change the zoning classification based on a finding that there was:

      1. (i) a substantial change in the character of the neighborhood where the property is located; or
      2. (ii) a mistake in the existing zoning classification.
   3. (3) The legislative body shall keep a complete record of a hearing on an application for reclassification and the votes of the members of the legislative body.
   4. (4) A legislative body may not allow the filing of an application for a reclassification of all or part of any land for which a reclassification has been denied by the legislative body on the merits in the 12 months before the date of the application.
   5. (5) The provisions of § 4-203(b) of this subtitle concerning public hearings and notice apply to applications for reclassification.

Added by Acts 2012, c. 426, § 2, eff. Oct. 1, 2012.