Any building or structure shall be considered existing and lawful and for purposes of § 157.300 of this chapter to have been in use for the purpose for which constructed if on the effective date of this chapter, a building permit has been obtained therefor, if required, or, if no building permit is required, a substantial start has been made toward construction and construction is thereafter pursued diligently to conclusion.
(Prior Code, Ch. XV, § 14.05) (Ord. 1977-1, passed 10-10-1977)