(a) Consistent with the purposes of this Zoning Code, every graphic or other sign in violation of any provision of this Chapter shall only be removed, altered or replaced so as to conform to the provisions of this Code. Any sign which was in compliance with these regulations immediately prior to the effective date of this Code, but, on the effective date of this Code or any amendments thereto, is not in compliance with the regulations herein shall be deemed nonconforming.
(b) Nonconforming signs shall be removed and any subsequent modification or replacement (excluding routine maintenance pursuant to Section 1129.08) shall conform to all requirements of these regulations:
1. When more than fifty percent (50%) of the value of the sign has been destroyed or been removed;
2. A change in the ownership of the real estate or a change in the management of the property or business will require conformity with the standards expressed in this chapter.
(c) A nonconforming sign shall be replaced, altered, modified or reconstructed in accordance with these regulations upon a change to the existing use of the pertaining building, or the pertaining building comes under new ownership or new management. Any proposed replacement, alteration, modification or reconstruction of a nonconforming sign shall be denied by the Planning Commission or their designees if the proposed changes are not in conformance with this Code.
(d) The Planning Commission may permit certain nonconforming signs to continue when, because of unique design features or construction qualities, the Commission determines the sign to be architecturally or historically significant.
(Ord. 2015-8. Passed 8-25-15.)