(1) If the governing body of a city or its designee fails to take final action on an application for a permit, limited land use decision or zone change within 120 days as provided in ORS 227.181, the applicant may file a petition for a writ of mandamus as provided in ORS 34.105 to 34.240. The court shall set the matter for trial as soon as practicable but not more than 15 days from the date a responsive pleading pursuant to ORS 34.170 is filed, unless the court has been advised by the parties that the matter has been settled.
(2) A writ of mandamus issued under this section shall order the governing body of the city or its designee to make a final determination on the application. The court, in its discretion, may order such remedy as the court determines appropriate.
(3) In a mandamus proceeding under this section the court shall award court costs and attorney fees to an applicant who prevails on a petition under this section.