Any lot of record existing before the adopted date of the ordinance from which this chapter is derived, which has an area or width which is less than required by this chapter, shall be subject to the following exceptions and modifications:
(1) Adjoining lots. When two or more adjoining lots with continuous frontage are in one ownership at any time after the adoption of the ordinance from which this chapter is derived, and such lots individually are less than the minimum square footage and/or have less than the minimum width required in the district in which they are located, then such group of lots shall be considered as a single lot or several lots of minimum permitted width and area for the district in which located. This does not apply to lots of record or to any lot in a subdivision which has received final approval from the county planning board. However, such lots must be at least one acre in area, unless served by a public water system, and must meet all county health department requirements.
(2) Lot not meeting minimum lot size requirements. Except as set forth in subsection (1) of this section, in any district in which single-family dwellings are permitted, any lot of record existing at the time of the adoption of these regulations which has an area or width which is less than required by these regulations may be used as a building site for a single-family dwelling.
(3) Side yard requirements. Except as set forth in subsection (1) of this section, where a lot has a width less than the width required in the district in which it is located, then the zoning administrator shall be authorized to reduce the side yard requirements for such lot; provided, however, no side yard shall be less than five feet wide.
(Ord. of 7-10-2000, § 1.7)