Within the districts established by this chapter and amendments that may later be adopted there exist lots, structures, uses of land and structures, and characteristics of use which were lawful before this chapter was adopted or amended, but which would be prohibited, regulated or restricted under the terms of this chapter or future amendment. It is the intent of this subchapter to permit these nonconformities to continue until they are removed, but not to necessarily encourage their survival. The city, however, desires that nonconforming situations be maintained in standard condition until such time that they can become conforming with this chapter. It is further the intent of this subchapter that such situations shall not be made nonconforming to a greater extent than exists at the time this chapter is adopted. To these ends, the regulations of this subchapter encourage nonconforming situations to be well maintained and to become more, rather than less, conforming over time.
(Ord. 101-1986, passed 10-7-86)