Permits for the construction of buildings, or for the use of land or buildings that have been issued permits prior to or within one year from the adoption of this code, and that are in violation with the regulations of this code shall be declared void, unless evidence is shown to establish that substantial expenditures have been made (see definition of substantial expenditures). Investment in real property shall not be construed as an expenditure toward construction. Unless actual construction work, including grading and excavation, is underway within one year after the adoption of this code, and construction is completed within three years from the adoption of this code, such permit(s) shall become void. (Ord. 929 Ch. 6(D), 1995).