The certificates and permits enumerated herein are hereby established for the equitable enforcement and administration of the provisions of this chapter. A zoning permit shall be a prerequisite for the erection or alteration of a building, structure or use thereof or for the change in the use of any land area or existing building. Permits issued pursuant to this section shall expire in 12 months. The CEO may grant an extension for time of completion and include any conditions or requirements deemed necessary or desirable. Applicants shall justify the need for the proposed extension. Unless such an extension is requested and approved, further work as described in the canceled permit shall not proceed until a new permit has been obtained. If a project is not initiated within six months of the issuance of the permit, the permit issued shall be considered null and void.