(A) Where a lawful building or structure exists at the effective date of this chapter, or an amendment thereto, that does not comply with the requirements of this chapter because of restrictions such as lot area, coverage, width, height or yards, that building or structure may be continued so long as it remains otherwise lawful, subject to the following provisions.
(1) The building or structure shall not be enlarged or altered in a way that increases its nonconformity, except in cases in which the setback of a building or structure is nonconforming by 50% or less of the distance required by this chapter. Only in these cases may the nonconforming setback be extended along the same plane as the existing nonconforming setback, provided that in so doing, the setback itself is not further reduced.
(2) If a nonconforming building or structure is destroyed or significantly damaged, the following shall apply.
(a) If destroyed or damaged to an extent of more than 60% of its replacement value, exclusive of the foundation, the building or structure shall be reconstructed only in conformance with the applicable requirements of the zoning district in which it is located.
(b) If a nonconforming building or structure is destroyed or damaged to an extent less than 60% of its replacement value, it may be reconstructed as it existed at the time of such destruction or damage, if reconstruction commences and progresses meaningfully within six months of the destruction or damage. Otherwise, it shall be reconstructed only in conformity with the provisions of this chapter.
(3) If a nonconforming building or structure is moved for any reason and for any distance, it shall be moved to a location which complies with the requirements of this chapter.
(B) None of the provisions of this section are meant to preclude normal repairs and maintenance, or improvements of any nonconforming building or structure which do not increase the nonconforming condition; or to prevent strengthening or correcting of any unsafe condition of the building or structure.
(Ord. effective 11-29-2013)