This Section applies only to undeveloped nonconforming lots. A lot is undeveloped if it has no substantial structures upon it.
(a) Multiple, Adjacent, Nonconforming Lots. Prior to development of undeveloped, legal, nonconforming lots which adjoin and have continuous frontage with one or more other undeveloped lots held under the same ownership and where no substantial nonconforming use has been made of the property, such nonconforming lots shall be consolidated with other adjacent undeveloped lots to create conforming lots, except where such combination would be out of character with the way the neighborhood has previously been developed. Standards for variance from this requirement, even where such use has been long contemplated, shall consider whether a development permit has been issued, whether construction has been started within a reasonable time, or whether substantial expenditures of time, effort, or funds, or significant changes in position have occurred.
(b) Any legal, nonconforming lot not meeting the requirements of subsection (a), above, and being a lot of record or lot for which a land contract has been issued or any lot within an unrecorded allotment, of which at least one-half (1/2) of the lots are of record or have been sold on land contract prior to the effective date of these regulations, may be used for a single-family dwelling irrespective of the area, depth or width of such lot.
(c) Setback Requirements for Proposed Residential Use. When a legal, nonconforming lot is proposed as the site for the erection of a single family dwelling, in place of the specified dimensional requirements of the particular zoning district, the following minimum requirements shall apply:
(1) Minimum front yard depth. The minimum front yard depth may be modified in accordance with Section 1154.02(d).
(2) The width of the side yard of any such lot need not exceed ten (10) percent of the width of the lot; however, in no instance shall the minimum dimensions of the side yards be less than five (5) feet
(3) The depth of the rear yard need not exceed twenty (20) percent of the depth of the lot; however, in no instance shall the minimum dimensions of the rear yard be less than twenty (20) feet.