(a) The fees and charges, in connection with matters pertinent to zoning petitions, zoning ordinance amendments, special exceptions, variances and appeals, shall be as set forth in appendix B to this code. When the fee has been paid and the application filed, there shall be no return or rebate of the fee, regardless of the city's determination in the matter involved.

(b) In addition to the scheduled fees, when an application is filed for rezoning or for a proposed amendment to this chapter, the applicant shall deposit with the city sufficient money to defray all involved costs for advertising, publication, administration and recording, as determined by the city clerk. If the process is not completed, any unexpended prepaid fees will be refunded to the applicant.

(c) No permit or certificate shall be issued and no inspection, public notice or other action relative to zoning, zoning amendments, petitions for changes in zoning districts or appeals shall be instituted until after such fees, costs and charges have been paid, except in those cases wherein fees are waived as specified in this section. All fees, costs and charges, upon collection, shall be deposited in the general fund of the city.

(d) Fees for proposed zoning amendments or appeals of administrative decisions shall be waived, provided the petition for amendment or appeal is sponsored by a majority of the city council or the planning and zoning board. Compliance with this subsection renders the petition an official city mandate for presentation to the board of adjustment or the city council, as appropriate, for final decision, without fee.