Any nonconforming use or structure existing on the effective
date of this chapter may be continued upon the lot or in the structure
so occupied; however, no nonconforming use, if once changed to a use
permitted in the district, shall be changed back to a nonconforming
use. If a nonconforming use of land or structure is abandoned, subsequent
use of such land or structure shall be in conformance with the provisions
of this chapter.
If a nonconforming structure, including a sign, is totally destroyed
by fire or other cause, reconstruction of the structure shall be in
conformance with the provisions of this chapter. Any nonconforming
structure, including signs, may be restored or repaired in the event
of partial destruction thereof.
A nonconforming use or structure cannot be extended, altered
or increased nor can the land associated with such use or structure
be increased or reduced in size or converted to any other nonconforming
use or uses without a variance.
Any nonconforming lot legally existing on the date of adoption
of this chapter, and not under the same ownership with any contiguous
lot, may have a building permit issued for a permitted use without
an appeal for a variance, provided that the building and improvement
coverages are not exceeded; the new structure does not violate any
height or setback requirements, and parking requirements are met.
In addition to the provisions of this Article, see also the provisions of Article X of this chapter regarding signs.
