Within the districts established by this Zoning Ordinance, lots, uses of land, structures and uses of structures and land in combination exist which were lawful before this Zoning Ordinance was passed or amended, but which would be prohibited, regulated or restricted under the terms of this Zoning Ordinance. The legitimate interest of those who lawfully established these nonconformities are recognized by providing for their continuance, subject to regulation limiting their completion, restoration, reconstruction, extension and substitution. Nothing contained in this Zoning Ordinance shall be construed to require any change in the layout, plans, construction, size or use of any lot, structure or structure and land in combination for which a zoning permit became effective and does not lapse prior to the effective date of this Zoning Ordinance. While it is the intent of this Zoning Ordinance that the nonconformities be allowed to continue until removed, they should not be encouraged to survive. No nonconformity may be moved, extended, altered, expanded or used as grounds for any other use(s) or structure(s) prohibited elsewhere in the district without the approval of the Planning Commission and Council, except as otherwise specifically provided for in this Zoning Ordinance.
(Ord. 98-104, passed 9-14-1998)