§8A-9-3. Court action on petition.

(a) Within twenty days after a petition for a writ of certiorari is presented, the planning commission, board of subdivision and land development appeals, or board of zoning appeals must show the circuit court, or a judge in vacation, of the county in which the affected premises are located, cause why a writ of certiorari should not be issued.

(b) If the planning commission, board of subdivision and land development appeals, or board of zoning appeals fails to show the court or judge that a writ should not be issued, then the court or judge may allow a writ of certiorari directed to the planning commission, board of subdivision and land development appeals, or board of zoning appeals.

(c) The writ shall prescribe the time in which a return shall be made to it. This time shall be not less than ten days from the date of issuance of the writ and may be extended by the court or judge.