Except as otherwise provided herein, the owner of any lot or other premises on which exists a sign that does not conform to the requirements of this subchapter shall be obligated to remove such sign or bring it into conformity with the requirements of this subchapter.
(A) Nonconforming existing signs, permits, and terms.
(1) A sign that would be permitted under this subchapter only with a sign permit, but which was in existence on December 6, 2004, and which was constructed in accordance with the parts and other applicable laws in effect on the date of its construction, but which by reason of its size, height, location, design, or construction is not in conformance with the requirements of this subchapter shall be issued a nonconforming sign permit. Such permit shall allow the sign(s) subject to such permit, which were made nonconforming by the adoption of this subchapter, to remain in place and be maintained, provided that no action is taken which increases the degree or extent of the nonconformity.
(2) Such signs are also subject to the provisions of § 150.56(A). However, any nonconforming sign shall:
(a) Either be eliminated or made to conform to the requirements of this subchapter when any proposed change, repair, or maintenance would constitute an expense of more than 25% of the lesser of the original value or replacement value of the sign; and
(b) Either be eliminated or made to conform to the requirements of this subchapter when any of the provisions of § 150.55 apply.
(B) Lapse of nonconforming sign permit. A nonconforming sign permit shall lapse and become void under the same circumstances as those under which any other sign permit may lapse and become void.
(C) Sign removal required. A sign that was constructed, painted, installed, or maintained in conformance with a permit under this subchapter but for which the permit has lapsed or not been renewed, or for which the time allowed for the continuance of a nonconforming sign has expired, shall be forthwith removed without notice or action from the borough.
(Ord. 04-2004, passed 12-6-2004)