The lawful use of building or premises existing at the time of the adoption of this chapter may be continued although such use does not conform with the provisions of this chapter, and such a building may be reconstructed or structurally altered and non-conforming uses therein changed subject to the following regulations:
(A) The order of classification of uses from highest to lowest districts for the purpose of this section shall be Residential 20, Residential 12, and Residential 8.
(B) A non-conforming use may not be enlarged or extended, but extension of a use to any portion of a building, which portion is at the time of the adoption of this chapter primarily arranged or designed for such non-conforming use, shall not be deemed to be an extension of a non-conforming use.
(C) The structural alterations made in a non-conforming building shall not, during its life, exceed 50% of its assessed value, nor shall the building be enlarged unless the use therein is changed to a conforming use, provided, however, that non-conforming building damaged by fire, explosion, tornado, earthquake, hurricane or similar uncontrollable cause, to an extent of not more than 60% of its assessed value, may be repaired or rebuilt within one year of the date of such damage, but not thereafter.
(D) If a non-conforming use is discontinued, any further use of the building and premises shall be in conformity with the provisions of this chapter. A reasonable interim, not to exceed 180 days, between tenants or occupants shall not be construed to mean discontinuance.
(Ord. passed 6-8-78; Am. Res. passed 4-8-10) Penalty, see § 10.99