(A) All permanent signs which are legally in existence at the time of passage of this subchapter, but which do not conform to one or more provisions of this subchapter, shall be deemed to be a legal nonconforming use and may be continued only as provided in this subchapter.
(B) Any nonconforming sign rendered nonconforming by the provisions of this subchapter may be continued in use, provided there is no physical change other than necessary maintenance and repair, except as otherwise permitted herein.
(C) Whenever a nonconforming sign has been discontinued for a period of six consecutive months, or whenever there is evidently a clear intent on the part of the owner to abandon a nonconforming sign, such sign shall not, after being discontinued or abandoned, be reestablished, and the sign thereafter shall be brought into conformity with the regulations of this subchapter.
(D) Normal maintenance of a nonconforming sign is permitted, including necessary nonstructural repairs or incidental alterations which do not extend or intensify the nonconforming features of the sign.
(E) No structural alteration, enlargement or extension shall be made in a nonconforming sign, unless the alteration will result in eliminating the nonconforming use.
(F) If a nonconforming sign is damaged or destroyed by any means to the extent of 50% or more of its replacement value at that time, or 50% or more of the physical structure, whichever is least, the sign can be rebuilt or used thereafter only for a conforming use and in compliance with the provisions of this subchapter. In the event the damage or destruction is less than 50%, the sign may then be restored to its original condition, and the use may be continued which existed at the time of such partial destruction until the nonconforming sign is otherwise abated by the provisions of this subchapter. In either event, restoration or repair must be started within a period of 30 days from the date of damage or destruction and diligently prosecuted to completion.
(G) Existing temporary signs shall be removed or permitted hereunder no later than 30 days after the effective date of this subchapter.
(Ord. 730, passed 9-21-92; Am. Ord. 1342, passed 5-3-04; Am. Ord. 1559, passed 12-1-08; Am. Ord. 1618, passed 5-3-10) Penalty, see § 156.999