(a) It is the intent of this chapter to permit legal nonconforming lots, structures or uses to continue until they are removed, but not to encourage their survival.
(b) It is recognized that there exist within the districts established by this Zoning Code and subsequent amendments, lots, structures and uses of land and structures which were lawful before this Zoning Code was passed or amended which would be prohibited, regulated or restricted under the terms of this Zoning Code or future amendments. Such uses are declared by this Zoning Code to be incompatible with permitted uses in the districts involved.
(c) It is further the intent of this chapter that nonconformities shall not be enlarged upon, expanded or extended, nor be used as the basis for adding other structures or uses prohibited elsewhere in the same district.
(d) A nonconforming use of either or both a structure and/or land shall not be extended or enlarged after the effective date of this Zoning Code by attachment on a building or premises of additional signs intended to be seen from off the premises, or by the addition of other uses of a nature which would be prohibited in the district involved.
(e) To avoid undue hardship, nothing in this Zoning Code shall be deemed to require a change in the plans, construction or designated use of any building on which actual construction was lawfully begun prior to the effective date of this Zoning Code, or any amendment thereto, and upon which construction has diligently proceeded and progressed. Actual construction is hereby defined to include the placing of construction materials in a permanent manner, except that where demolition or removal of an existing building has been substantially begun preparatory to rebuilding, such demolition or removal shall be deemed to be actual construction, provided that work shall diligently proceed and progress until the completion of the building involved.
(Ord. 260. Passed 7-9-79.)