Any lawful nonconforming use or structure which
existed on July 1, 1983, may be continued, and any existing structure
designed, arranged, intended or devoted to a nonconforming use may
be structurally altered subject to the following regulations:
A.
A nonconforming use shall not be enlarged unless the
use is changed to a conforming use; provided, however, that where
a building meets the use requirements of this chapter and is nonconforming
because of height, area and/or yard regulations, said use may be enlarged,
provided that the height, area or yard regulations are not further
violated.
B.
A nonconforming use changed to a conforming use shall
not thereafter be changed back to a nonconforming use.
C.
A nonconforming use in existence July 1, 1983, shall
not be permitted to be changed to another nonconforming use.
D.
In the event that there is a cessation of operation
of any nonconforming use for a period of 12 consecutive calendar months,
the same shall be prima facie evidence of an abandonment of the use.
Any subsequent exercise of such abandoned nonconforming use shall
be deemed a violation of the terms of this chapter.
Nothing in this chapter shall require any change
in plans, construction or designated use of a structure for which
a building permit has been issued when construction has been diligently
prosecuted within six months following the date of such permit and
completed within the term of such permit.
Any nonconforming use or structure existing
July 1, 1983, may be continued upon the lot or in the building so
occupied, and any structure may be restored or repaired in the event
of partial destruction thereof.
Nothing in this chapter shall be interpreted
as implied authorization for or approval of the continuance of the
use of a structure or premises in violation of zoning regulations
in effect July 1, 1983.
The foregoing provisions of this chapter shall
also apply to structures, land or uses which hereafter become nonconforming
due to any reclassification of zones under this chapter or any subsequent
change in the regulations of this chapter.
