A sign existing lawfully at the time this chapter is adopted, but which does not conform with the sign regulations of the district in which it is located, may be repaired and maintained in its original state, and structural or electrical parts may be repaired or restored to a safe condition in compliance with the National Electric Code.
(a) Nonconforming signs shall be removed and any subsequent modification or replacement, excluding maintenance pursuant to Section 1290.14, shall conform to all requirements of this chapter:
(1) When the Zoning Enforcement Officer determines that more than 50% of the market value of the sign as determined according to Section 1282.12 has been destroyed or has been taken down.
(2) When the use which the nonconforming sign is accessory to is vacant for 90 consecutive days; and
(3) Following five years from the date of the amendment to this chapter which made the sign nonconforming.
(b) A nonconforming sign may not be altered, modified or reconstructed other than to comply with this chapter.
(c) Notwithstanding division (b) above, a nonconforming sign may be altered:
(1) When either the existing use has new ownership which results in a change in the name of the use or business on the property; or the space is reoccupied by a similar use, and the new occupant requires no external building or site renovation; and
(2) The alterations do not require changes to the structure, framing or erection or relocation of the sign.
(Ord. 58-01. Passed 5-29-01.)