(A) Except as provided in this Sign Code, a nonconforming sign may continue in the manner and to the extent that it existed at the time of the ordinance adoption, amendment or annexation which rendered the sign nonconforming. This Sign Code shall not prohibit reasonable repairs and alterations to nonconforming signs.
(B) A sign approved by variance or comprehensive sign plan before the effective date of this Sign Code, shall not be considered nonconforming and shall not be subject to the regulations set forth in this Sign Code.
(C) A nonconforming sign shall not be re-erected, relocated or replaced unless it is brought into compliance with the requirements of this Sign Code.
(D) If the structure of a nonconforming sign is changed, the height and sign area shall not be increased to exceed the height and sign area limits of the site on which it is located. If the sign exceeds the site's height and/or area limitations, the excess height and/or sign area shall be reduced a minimum of 50%. Two reductions shall be permitted; after the third structural change, the sign shall conform to current standards. Nothing in this Sign Code shall require a nonconforming sign to be reduced to a height or sign area less than that allowed on the site.
(E) If a nonconforming sign is located on a parcel that is experiencing development for which site plan and/or design review is required, the height and sign area of the sign shall not be increased to exceed the height and sign area limitations of the site. If the sign exceeds the site's height and/or sign area limitations, the excess height and/or sign area shall be reduced to a minimum of 50%. Two reductions shall be permitted; after the third structural change, the sign shall conform to current standards. Nothing in this Sign Code shall require a nonconforming sign to be reduced to a height or sign area less than that allowed on the site.
(F) Site plan and/or design review required by one of the following types of development shall not cause reduction in a sign's nonconforming height and/or sign area:
(1) An addition of less than 2,000 square feet when the addition is less than 50% of the size of the usable space of the site which is the subject of design review. A series of additions, which total more than 50% of the usable space of the site, shall require reduction of non-conformities. Usable space shall not include areas such as restrooms and storage rooms.
(2) An addition of more than 2,000 square feet when the addition is less than 10% of the size of the usable space of the site which is the subject of design review. A series of additions, which total more than 10% of the usable space of the site, shall require reduction of non-conformities. Usable space shall not include areas such as restrooms and storage rooms.
(3) A modification required by federal, state or local regulations or programs.
(Ord. 667-19, passed 11-18-2019)