Nonconforming signs shall not be enlarged, extended, structurally reconstructed or altered in any manner, except that the sign face (gross surface area portion of the sign) may be changed as long as the new sign face is equal to or reduced in height, sign area, and/or projection.
A. A sign permit is not needed for a new sign face, or a change in the advertising content appearing on the sign face.
B. Nonconforming signs may remain, provided they are maintained in good repair, except for the following.
C. Removal is required if the sign and/or the structure supporting the sign is damaged or destroyed to the extent of fifty percent (50%) or more of the sign's replacement value. If the damage or destruction is less than fifty percent (50%), the sign must be under repair within sixty (60) days and all repairs must be completed within six (6) months. The sign shall not be enlarged in any manner.
D. If the nonconforming sign is relocated and/or the supporting structure is replaced, the new sign shall be conforming.
E. Any sign, display or device allowed in this Title may contain (in lieu of any other copy) lawful noncommercial messages that do not direct attention to a business operated for profit or to a commodity or service for sale. The sign, display or device must comply with all other requirements of this Title.
F. If a business changes but does not require remodeling in excess of the fifty (50) percent threshold, the new business will be allowed to change existing nonconforming sign faces.
G. No temporary sign, prohibited sign or sign for an illegal use shall be eligible for nonconforming status. A change of property ownership on which a nonconforming sign is located shall not require replacement of the sign unless the terms of this section apply. (Ord. 232, 4-14-2010)