(A) A legal nonconforming building is a struc-ture which lawfully existed prior to the effective date of applicable chapters of this title, but by reason of the adoption of this title, or any amendment thereto, fails to conform to the present requirements of the zoning district in which it is located.
(B) General requirements.
(1) A nonconforming building which is damaged to an extent of one-half or more of its replacement cost immediately prior to such damage may be restored only if made to conform to all provisions of this title, except as specified in § 23.56.030(A)(6). The replacement cost shall be determined by the chief building official, whose decision may be appealed to the City Council.
(2) Changes to interior partitions or other non-structural improvements and repairs may be made to a nonconforming building to the extent of not more than one-half its replacement cost over any five-year period.
(3) Subject to the valuation limit in division (2) above, structural elements may be modified where the Chief Building Official determines such modifica-tion is immediately necessary to protect the health and safety of the public or occupants of the non-conforming building or adjacent property.
(4) If the use of a nonconforming building is discontinued for a period of six months or more, the building shall lose its nonconforming status, and shall thereafter be removed or altered to conform to the provisions of this title.
('86 Code, § 23.56.020) (Ord. 4110, passed - - ) Penalty, see § 1.12.010