Except as otherwise provided in this article, the lawful use of a structure or land existing at the effective date of this chapter may be continued although such use does not conform to the provisions of this chapter, and becomes a nonconforming use as defined in Article
II.
Whenever a nonconforming use has been discontinued for a period
of one year, such use shall not thereafter be reestablished, and any
future use shall be in conformity with the provisions of this chapter.
Upon application by the owner or agent of any nonconforming
use, structure or property, the Zoning Administrator shall issue a
certificate recording the fact of such nonconforming use, structure
or property. Such certificate may be used as evidence in asserting
rights pursuant to this article.