A.
It is recognized that there exist certain structures and uses which were lawfully established prior to the passage of this chapter or amendments thereto and which are now made to be in violation of this chapter. It is the intent of this chapter to permit such nonconforming uses to continue until they are removed, but not to encourage their survival. Such structures and uses may be changed only in the direction of reducing their degree of nonconformity to this chapter.
B.
Where the question of direction of change is at issue, the matter will be determined by the Zoning Board of Appeals, which will consider in its deliberations the anticipated changes in the visual appearance of the premises, the traffic volume, the population concentration, the type and volume of emissions from the property and other such relevant data to determine whether the proposed use is more appropriate to the district than the existing nonconforming use.
C.
Should any nonconforming structure or use be wholly or partially destroyed by any means to the extent of more than 75% of its replacement cost at the time of destruction, it shall not be reconstructed or used except in conformity with this chapter.
D.
The failure to exercise a nonconforming use for a period of one year or more terminates the right to exercise such nonconforming use of the structure or premises, and, thereafter, structures and premises shall be used only in conformity with this chapter.
E.
Nothing in this chapter shall be deemed to require a change in the plans, construction or designated use of any building on which actual construction was lawfully begun prior to the date of adoption or amendment of this chapter and upon which actual construction has been diligently carried on.
F.
Normal nonstructural repairs and maintenance may be performed upon a nonconforming structure or a structure containing a nonconforming use. Any major repairs required to restore the structure to a safe condition, as determined by a duly authorized public official, shall be made only in conformity with this chapter.
G.
Notwithstanding any of the above provisions, new farm buildings for the housing of farm animals, produce and farm machinery only may be erected on any farm existing at the date of this chapter or amendments thereto, provided that any such building erected hereafter shall be located not less than 100 feet from the nearest lot line of any adjoining owner.