Existing movable and changeable copy signs shall only be continued if they are made to comply with this article. The continued use of flashing signs and lights is prohibited. Any nonconforming sign may be continued only as provided in this Section. Any sign erected prior to the adoption of Article 1335A Signs (July 2, 1998) and currently is not in compliance with said article is considered grandfathered until such time as conditions of subsection (f) are met. New construction or installation of"bill-board" signage is prohibited in all zoning districts.
(a) Normal maintenance of a nonconforming sign may occur, including any necessary repairs and alterations which do not enlarge, extend, or intensify the nonconformity.
(b) No structural alteration, enlargement, or extension shall be made of a nonconforming sign, except when the alteration is required by law or will eliminate the nonconforming condition.
(c) No conforming sign shall be erected on the same premises as an existing nonconforming sign until the nonconforming sign has been removed or changed to a conforming sign. However, for multi-occupant land uses, the fact that one particular establishment therein has a nonconforming sign will not prohibit a different establishment therein from erecting a conforming sign on the same premises.
(d) A nonconforming sign shall be made to conform with the requirements of this article whenever there is a change in the use or occupancy of the building which the sign serves, or whenever the building or structure which the sign serves is externally expanded or remodeled.
(e) Whenever the use of a nonconforming sign, or the use which the sign serves, has been discontinued for a period of six (6) consecutive months, or whenever it is evident that there is a clear intent on the part of the owner to abandon the use of a nonconforming sign, or the use which the sign serves, then the sign thereafter shall be made to conform with the provisions of this article.
(f) If a nonconforming sign is damaged or destroyed by any means to the extent of fifty (50) percent or more of its replacement value at the time of the damage or destruction (based on prevailing costs), then the sign thereafter shall be restored to conform to the provisions of this Article. If the nonconforming sign presents a danger to life, health safety or property, said sign is to be permanently removed at the owner's expense. However, if the damage or destruction is less than fifty (50) percent of the replacement value, then the sign may thereafter be restored to its original condition, so long as restoration or repair of the sign is completed within six (6) months after the date of damage or destruction. The repaired or reconstructed sign shall be made to conform to the Clarksburg City Building Code and Electrical Code in force at the time of the repair or reconstruction.
(Ord. 19-2. Passed 3-21-19.)