The Board of Zoning and Building Appeals shall operate so as to carry into effect the powers and jurisdiction conferred upon it as follows:
(a) To hear and decide appeals where it is alleged there is error in any order, requirement, decision, or determination made by the Responsible Authority in the enforcement of this Zoning Code.
(b) To hear and decide upon application for variances under the terms provided in this Code.
(c) To interpret the provisions of the Zoning Code or Zoning Map where there is doubt as to meaning or application. The Board shall have the specific power to:
(1) Interpret the precise location of the boundary lines between zoning districts.
(2) Interpret the classification of a use which is not specifically mentioned as a part of the use regulations of any zoning district so that it conforms to a comparable conditionally permitted, permitted, or prohibited use in accordance with the intent and purpose of each district.
(d) To hear and decide whether or not a nonconforming use should be granted extensions, additions, or reconstruction (in case of a 50% or more loss), or change in use to another nonconforming use.
(e) To exercise such other powers as may be granted to the Board by this Zoning Code, amendment thereto, or by the general laws as set forth in the Ohio Revised Code as amended.
(f) The Board shall not have the power to alter or change the zoning district classification of any property, nor to make any change in the terms or intent of this Zoning Code, but does have power to act on those matters where the Zoning Code provides for judicial review, interpretation, or variance requests as defined in this chapter.
(g) Grant variances from the strict application of the provisions of the sign code, as set forth in Chapter 1288, in regard to an existing nonconforming sign or a new sign to be installed, erected, constructed or painted, if the Board finds that requiring strict compliance with the sign code may impose an undue hardship and that the granting of the variance will not depreciate or damage neighboring property, will not create a safety hazard and will not be contrary to the requirements of the sign code.
(Ord. 01-014. Passed 7-17-01.)