The purpose of this article is to regulate nonconforming
uses, structures, lots and signs as per the following:
A. The zoning districts established by this chapter are
designed to guide the future use of the City's land by encouraging
the development of desirable residential, commercial and industrial
areas with appropriate groupings of compatible and related uses and
thus to promote and protect the public health, safety and general
welfare.
B. The continued existence of certain nonconformities
is frequently inconsistent with the Comprehensive Plan and thus the
gradual elimination of such nonconformities is often desirable. Other
nonconformities may continue to exist and afford adaptive reuse opportunities
that can contribute to neighborhood character, diversity and services.
C. The regulations of this article are intended to restrict
further investments that would make nonconformities more permanent
in their location in inappropriate districts as well as to afford
opportunities for creative use and reuse of those other nonconformities
that contribute to a neighborhood and are consistent with the goals
of the Comprehensive Plan.
D. Restrictions and standards are established for nonconforming
uses of land and of structures designed for a permitted use; nonconforming
uses of structures not designed for a permitted use; nonconforming
structures; nonconforming lots of record; and nonconforming signs.
E. In the cases of nonconforming signs, where the degree
of incompatibility is frequently great, the investment comparatively
small, and the economic life short, elimination of the nonconformity
is required after a period of discontinuance, change of business or
substantial damage. In the case of advertising signs, a reasonable
amortization period is allowed.
[Amended 6-17-2003 by Ord. No. 2003-183]
A. In any district in which single-family dwellings are
a permitted use, notwithstanding the regulations imposed by any other
provisions of this chapter, a single-family detached dwelling which
complies with the yard, space and bulk requirements of the district
in which it is located may be erected on a nonconforming lot.