1145.10 NONCONFORMING SIGNS .
(a) A permanent sign existing lawfully at the time this section becomes effective but which does not conform with the sign regulations of the district in which it is located may be maintained and structural or electrical parts may be repaired or restored to a safe condition; otherwise a nonconforming sign shall not be altered or moved or substitution made unless it is made to conform with this chapter. If any sign or part thereof is damaged or destroyed more than fifty percent (50%) of its reproduction value or taken down, it shall not be rebuilt or relocated unless it shall be made to comply with the regulations of the district in which it is located.
(b) However, all such nonconforming signs shall be registered with the City within ninety days of the effective date of this section. Being informed of such requirement by the Building Commissioner, each property owner shall apply for and receive a twenty-four month temporary permit at no charge for continuation of the nonconforming use. Upon expiration of the twenty-four month temporary permit, the sign shall be brought into compliance or the permit may be renewed provided there are no objections from contiguous property owners and subsection (e) hereof is complied with. However, any nonconforming sign which represents a potential safety hazard such as a sign which extends over public walkways shall be corrected or removed at the expiration of the temporary permit .
(c) Failure of an owner to maintain a nonconforming sign in a safe and attractive condition shall be just cause to void any temporary permit and give the City the right to demand immediate removal of such nonconforming sign.
(d) Any temporary sign, illegally mounted sign or sign not directly related to the business on the premises in existence at the time this section becomes effective and not conforming with the regulations of this chapter shall be removed within ten days of the effective date of this section after being properly and legally informed of such regulation by the Building Commissioner.
(e) All signs rendered nonconforming by this chapter and permitted to continue may be declared public nuisances and if so declared, shall be removed, altered, or remodeled to conform to this chapter not later than six years from the effective date of this section.
(Ord. 5-1995. Passed 5-9-95.)