(A) Applicability. This subsection applies to signs as defined in § 155.508 (Glossary) that are nonconforming.
(B) Continuation. Except as otherwise required by this section, a non-conforming sign may continue its use as a sign if it was legally established in compliance with all applicable regulations in effect at the time the sign was installed. It is the applicant’s responsibility to demonstrate that the sign was legally established.
(C) Allowed changes.
(1) Changes to sign copy/face and repainting of legal non- conforming signs is permitted as long as there is no alteration to the physical structure or support elements of the sign.
(2) A legal-non-conforming sign that sustains less than 50% damage to its structure may be repaired to its original pre-damaged condition; provided that, such repair is completed within 180 days after the date of the damage.
(D) Required compliance.
(1) Sign installed on or after January 1, 2000. A non- conforming sign installed on or after January 1, 2000, must be removed or brought into compliance with this section when:
(a) The sign is damaged or requires maintenance and the cost of repair exceeds 50% of the replacement value;
(b) The sign is relocated to a different lot or building; or
(c) The Director determines the sign has become a public nuisance or hazard due to inadequate maintenance or dilapidation in accordance with § 155.340.080(E) (Maintenance).
(2) Sign installed before January 1, 2000. A legal non- conforming sign installed before January 1, 2000, must be removed or brought into compliance with this section when:
(a) The sign is associated with a development project requiring a building permit where the total construction value is $50,000 or more;
(b) A new use occupies the tenant space served by the sign;
(c) The sign is located on a remodeled building facade;
(d) The building containing the use advertised by the sign is enlarged by 10% or more;
(e) The sign is damaged or requires maintenance and the cost of repair exceeds 50% of the replacement value;
(f) The sign is relocated to a different lot or building; or
(g) The Director determines the sign has become a public nuisance or hazard due to inadequate maintenance or dilapidation in accordance with § 155.340.080(E) (Maintenance).
(E) Digital signs. Non-conforming digital signs must comply with the design, message, and brightness standards in Table 340-9 in § 155.340.070 (Sign Standards).
(Ord. 885-C.S., passed 5-21-19; Am. Ord. 902-C.S., passed 8-18-20; Am. Ord. 916-C.S., passed 7-6-21; Am. Ord. 938-C.S., passed 11-1-22)