A. 
This chapter is derived from a comprehensive ordinance regulating and limiting the uses of land and the uses and locations of buildings and structures; regulating and restricting the height and bulk of buildings and structures and determining the area of yards and other open spaces; regulating and restricting the density of population; dividing the Borough of Clayton, Gloucester County, New Jersey into zoning districts for such purposes; adopting a map of said Borough showing boundaries and the classification of such districts; establishing an Official Map for said municipality; establishing rules, regulations and standards governing the subdivision and development of land within the Borough; establishing a Planning Board which also serves as the Zoning Board of Adjustment; and prescribing penalties for the violation of its provisions.
B. 
The short form by which this chapter may be known shall be the "Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) of the Borough of Clayton."
A. 
This chapter is adopted pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:55D-1 et seq., commonly known as the "Municipal Land Use Law," which confers the power to regulate the use of lands within its jurisdiction upon New Jersey municipalities.
B. 
This chapter is also based upon the duly recognized police powers of a municipality and is an exercise of the same.
This chapter is adopted in order to promote and protect the public health, safety, and general welfare and in the furtherance of the following specific objectives:
A. 
Ensuring the coordinated development of the Borough in accordance with its Master Plan.
B. 
Lessening congestion on the streets and ensuring access to the circulation system.
C. 
Providing for adequate light and air.
D. 
Preventing the overcrowding of land and buildings.
E. 
Promoting a desirable visual environment through creative development techniques and good civic design and arrangements.
F. 
Providing a full range of housing choices to meet the needs of households in all income levels.
G. 
Avoiding the undue concentration of population.
H. 
Ensuring the conservation and protection of open space and natural features.
I. 
Conserving the value of property.
A. 
The Borough Council affirms by its adoption of this chapter that it has received and reviewed the Land Use and Housing Elements of the Borough of Clayton Master Plan, as duly adopted by the Borough Planning Board, and that this chapter is substantially consistent with the recommendations and provisions of those elements.
B. 
The statement of goals, objectives, principles, assumptions, policies and standards contained in the Borough of Clayton Master Plan is adopted by reference and shall be considered applicable to this chapter.
C. 
All future amendments to this chapter shall be made only after a review of the Land Use and Housing Elements of the Master Plan and in conformity with its statement of goals, objectives, principles, assumptions, policies and standards.