(a) Abandonment. An existing sign which was lawfully existing at the time of enactment of this chapter, but does not meet the regulations and requirements of this chapter, shall be deemed a nonconforming sign. The continuance of such nonconforming sign shall terminate by abandonment when any of the following conditions exist:
(1) When the sign is associated with an abandoned use.
(2) When the sign remains after the termination of a business. A business is considered terminated if it has ceased operations and/or if it is closed to the public for at least ninety (90) consecutive days. Seasonal businesses are exempt from this requirement.
(3) When the sign is not maintained or does not conform to the following:
A. All signs, together with all supports, braces, guys and anchors shall be kept in a proper state of repair.
B. Every sign and the immediate surrounding premises shall be maintained by the owner, or his agent, in a clean, sanitary and inoffensive condition, free from all obnoxious substances, rubbish and weeds.
(4) When the sign is damaged or partially destroyed to the extent of more than fifty percent (50%) of its current replacement cost at the time of damage.
Upon finding that the sign is abandoned, the right to maintain and use such sign shall terminate immediately.
(b) Relocation or Replacement. A nonconforming sign shall not be structurally relocated or replaced unless it is brought into compliance with the provisions of this Section. Should any replacement or relocation occur without being brought into compliance, the sign shall be subject to removal.
(c) Maintenance. A nonconforming sign shall be maintained or repaired, provided the size and structural shape of the sign is not be changed or altered.
(d) Inspection and Removal. If any sign is found, upon inspection by the Zoning Inspector, to constitute a hazard to public safety, such sign shall be subject to immediate removal by order of the Zoning Inspector.
(Ord. 23-18. Passed 11-26-18.)