(A) Any sign located within the town limits on the date of the adoption of this chapter and which does not conform to the provisions of this chapter shall be a “legal nonconforming” sign and will be permitted, provided the sign is a permanent sign.
(B) Loss of legal nonconforming status.
(1) A legal nonconforming sign shall immediately lose its legal nonconforming status if:
(a) The sign or sign structure, because of improper installation or maintenance, constitutes a threat to public health or safety and remains in such condition after a reasonable time is given to remedy the problem;
(b) The sign is demolished or damaged to the extent of 50% or more of its value;
(c) The permit or condition under which the sign was allowed expires; or
(d) The sign or sign structure is substantially structurally altered so as to prolong its expected life.
(2) On the happening of any one of the above-listed items, the sign shall be immediately brought into conformance with this chapter or shall be removed. The following shall not result in loss of legal nonconforming status:
(a) Any changes of color, design, or message on the sign’s face; and
(b) Any modification to the sign or sign structure which does not constitute a substantial structural modification.
(C) Nothing in this chapter shall relieve the owner or user of a legal nonconforming sign or owner of the property on which the legal nonconforming sign is located from any provisions regarding safety, maintenance, and repair of signs.
(2011 Code, § 153.06) (Ord. 2004-01, passed 4-5-2004)