"Nonconforming use of a building" means the use of a building existing lawfully at the time this Zoning Code (Ord. 75-O-53, passed June 2, 1975) or any amendment thereto became effective, but which does not conform to the use, advertising sign, parking or loading regulations of the district in which it is located. Any nonconforming use of a building may be continued only under the following conditions:
(a) Change of use. The nonconforming use of a building may only be changed to a conforming use. Once a nonconforming use has been changed to a conforming use or a more restricted use, such use shall not be changed back to a less restricted use or nonconforming use.
(b) Expansion of use. The nonconforming use of part of a building may not be expanded or extended.
(c) Abandonment of use. If any nonconforming use within a building or portion thereof is discontinued for a continuous period of at least one year, any future use of such building or portion thereof so discontinued, shall comply with this Zoning Code.
(d) Nonconforming signs. A nonconforming sign shall be regulated as set forth in Chapter 1286.
(e) Nonconforming parking facilities. A building or use existing lawfully at the time this Zoning Code or any amendment thereto became effective, but which does not conform with the off-street parking or off-street loading regulations, may be occupied by the existing use without such parking and/or loading facilities being provided. However, any parking spaces that may be provided thereafter shall comply with the regulations set forth in Chapter 1288. Furthermore, if the existing building is altered so that there is an increase of the number of dwelling units, seating capacity or floor area, or if the use is changed to a use requiring more off-street facilities, then off-street parking and loading facilities shall be made at least equal to the number of spaces required for the entire building or use in accordance with all provisions of Chapter 1288.
(f) Non-conforming use; performance standards. Any use established before the effective date of this Zoning Code (Ord. 75-O-53, passed June 2, 1975) and nonconforming as to one or more of the performance standards established for industrial operations, shall be required to conform thereto within one year.
(Ord. 01-O-42, passed 9-17-2001)