It is the purpose of this article to allow, with conditions,
the continuance of existing uses of land and structures which, as
of the effective date of this chapter, as amended, may not meet the
bulk, use, or other standards established by this chapter.
A building may be erected or altered on any lot held at the
effective date of this chapter in single and separate ownership which
is not of the required minimum area or width or is of such unusual
dimensions that the owner would have difficulty in providing the required
open spaces for the district in which such lot is situated, provided
that where a lot cannot meet the required yard requirements for the
zoning district in which it is located, a special exception shall
be authorized by the Zoning Hearing Board and, provided, further,
that the applicant does not own or control other adjoining property
sufficient to enable him to comply with the provisions of this chapter
as amended.