18.140.023 Innocent Purchasers.
A. "Innocent purchaser" is defined in Chapter 18.25 PCC.
B. The burden of proof of innocence is on the property owner. Evidence that can be used to demonstrate innocence includes, but is not limited to, aerial photography, property tax records, real estate deeds, and real property transfer disclosure statements.
C. To be considered an "innocent purchaser," the current owner must have purchased the property for fair market value. "Innocent purchaser" does not include acquiring property via inheritance or trusts.
D. Real Property Transfers before January 1, 2011. The provisions of this Chapter shall not apply to development that occurred prior to January 1, 2011, on property purchased by innocent purchasers.
E. Real Property Transfers on or after January 1, 2011. The provisions of this Chapter shall not apply to development on property purchased by innocent purchasers on or after January 1, 2011, with the following exceptions:
1. A person will not qualify as an innocent purchaser where Pierce County has recorded a certificate of noncompliance, lis pendens, or other notice of violation regarding the subject property with the County Auditor.
F. Recognition of unpermitted development which is owned by an innocent purchaser does not imply or establish nonconforming rights under Pierce County Code.
G. These provisions are not intended to exempt development from complying with the construction standards of Title 17C PCC when the Building Official determines that a structure poses a "life/safety" risk.
H. These provisions are not intended to exempt development from permitting requirements of State or Federal agencies.