Subject to the provisions of this article, a nonconforming structure or use may be continued and maintained in reasonable repair but may not be altered or extended, except that the extension of a nonconforming use at the time this chapter is adopted shall be permissible, and except that a structure conforming with respect to use but nonconforming with respect to height, setback or coverage may be altered or extended if the alteration or extension does not deviate further from the standards of this chapter. If a preexisting use or structure is legal and nonconforming or was conforming under the previous ordinance but becomes nonconforming through the adoption of this chapter, then it shall become a legal nonconforming use or structure and subject to the provisions of this chapter. If a use or structure was illegal under the provisions of the previous ordinance, then it shall remain illegal or nonconforming only as it pertains to the provisions of this chapter.
If a nonconforming use involving a structure is discontinued for a period of six months, further use of the property shall conform to this chapter. If a nonconforming use not involving a structure is discontinued for a period of three months, further use of the property shall conform to this chapter.
If a nonconforming use is replaced by another use, the new use shall conform to this chapter.
If a nonconforming structure or a structure containing a nonconforming use is destroyed or razed, as determined by the Assessor or Director of Planning, head of the Building Department, or similar officer or designee or Code Enforcement Officer, to an extent exceeding 75% of its fair market value as indicated on the latest assessment records of the Town of Chili, the future structure or use on the site shall conform to this chapter.
Nothing contained in this chapter shall require any change in the plans, construction, alteration or designated use of a structure for which a building permit has been issued and construction work has commenced prior to the adoption of this chapter, provided that the building, if nonconforming or intended for a nonconforming use, is completed and in use within one year from the time the building permit is issued.