Legal non-conforming signs are those which do not meet the intent and specifications of this chapter. Any sign which exists at the time of adoption of this chapter which was legally erected prior to enactment of this chapter, but fails to conform to the provisions specified herein, shall be regarded as a legal non-conforming sign which may be continued as long as it is kept in good repair and maintained in safe condition. The burden of establishing that any non-conforming sign is a legal non-conformity shall, in all cases, be upon the owner of such non-conformity and not upon the City of Gallipolis. A legal non-conforming sign shall immediately lose its legal non- conforming designation and must be brought into compliance with these regulations or be removed if:
(a) The sign is altered in any way in structure or copy (except for changeable copy signs and normal maintenance).
(b) The sign is relocated.
(c) The sign is replaced.
(d) The sign is part of an establishment that discontinues its operation for a period of ninety (90) consecutive days.
(e) The sign is structurally altered.
(f) The sign is reprinted (excluding normal touch up, repainting, or normal maintenance).
(g) The sign is damaged over sixty percent (60%).
(Ord. 2001-35. Passed 7-17-01.)