A.
Continuation. Any lawful use of a building or land existing at the effective date of this chapter, or previously authorized by a permit issued prior to the effective date of this chapter, may be continued although such use no longer conforms to the provisions of this chapter.
B.
Expansion. A building that contains a nonconforming use or freestanding nonconforming use may be extended up to 50% of the area occupied by such use at the effective date of this chapter, provided that such nonconforming use may be extended more than 50% when authorized as a special exception.
C.
Changes in use.
(1)
A nonconforming use of a building or land may be changed to a nonconforming use of the same or similar character, or a use more in conformity with the permitted uses of the district, provided no structural alterations are made therein.
(2)
Where a structural change is proposed, the proposal is required to obtain special exception authorization from the Zoning Hearing Board.
(3)
Whenever a nonconforming use of a building or land has been changed to a nonconforming use of the same or similar character, a use more in conformity with the permitted uses of the district, or to a conforming use, such use shall not thereafter be changed to a less conforming use.
D.
Abandonment. If a nonconforming use of a building or lot ceases for a continuous period of one year or more any subsequent use of such building or land shall be in conformity with the provisions of this chapter.