(a) Amortization of Nonconforming Signs. Nonconforming permanent signs shall be removed or brought into compliance with ordinance requirements whenever a permit is required for the modification or replacement of said signs.
(b) Repairs and Maintenance. Nonconforming signs shall be kept in good repair. Normal maintenance shall be permitted, provided that any nonconforming sign that is destroyed by any means to an extent greater than fifty percent (50%) of the sign's prior fair market value, exclusive of foundation, shall not be reconstructed. Normal maintenance shall include painting of chipped or faded signs; replacement of faded or damaged surface panels; or, repair or replacement of electrical wiring or electrical devices.
(c) Modifications to the Principal Building. Whenever the principal building on a site on which a nonconforming sign is located is modified to the extent that site plan review and approval is required, the nonconforming sign shall be removed.
(d) Additional Signs. No additional signs shall be permitted on a lot or building while a nonconforming sign exists on the lot or building.
(e) Change in Occupancy or Business License. If, at any given location, there is a change in the occupancy or business license, all nonconforming signs shall be removed.
(f) Fees. There shall be no plan review fee charged to an applicant for a new sign when the owner voluntarily proposes to remove a nonconforming sign.
(g) Temporary Signs. Temporary signs that are nonconforming shall be altered to comply with the provisions of this chapter or removed within thirty (30) days after the effective date of this chapter.
(Ord. 2008-06. Passed 7-14-08; Ord. 2011-02. Passed 2-14-11; Ord. 2012-08. Passed 12-10-12; Ord. 2019-01. Passed 1-14-19.)