No existing building or premises devoted to a use not permitted by this ordinance in the district in which such building or premises is located, except when required to do so by law or order, shall be enlarged, extended, reconstructed, substituted or structurally altered, unless the use thereof is changed to a use permitted in the district in which such building or premises is located, and except as follows:
(a) Substitution. When authorized by the Planning and Zoning Commission, in accordance with the provisions of the substitution for a nonconforming use of another not more objectionable nonconforming use.
(b) Nonconforming Use Made to Conform. Whenever a nonconforming use has been changed to a conforming use, such use shall not thereafter be changed to a nonconforming use.
(c) Whenever a lawful use becomes nonconforming through a change in the Zoning Ordinance or in the district boundaries, such use may be continued subject to the same limitations and the same conditions set forth above.
(d) Discontinuance of a Use. No building, structure, or premises where a nonconforming use has been discontinued for a period of 12 months or more shall again be put to a nonconforming use.
(e) Nonconformity – Performance Standards. All uses nonconforming at the time of adoption of this Zoning Ordinance by reason of noncompliance with the provisions of Chapter 1157
if not otherwise stipulated by the Commission, shall conform therewith within the time limit specified in the same section.
(f) Repairs and Maintenance. Repairs and maintenance work as required to keep a nonconforming building or structure in a sound and safe condition may be made.
(g) Damaged Buildings. A nonconforming lawful use which has been damaged by fire, explosion, act of God or the public enemy may be reconstructed and used as before the time of damage, provided: such repairs or reconstruction are completed within (12) months of the date of such damage; that the new building, use or structure shall not contain more than the original space of the replaced building, use or structure; and that it shall conform to all applicable building regulations.
(Ord.97-3. Passed 5-19-97.)