Within the districts established by this Zoning Ordinance, or by amendments thereto which may later be adopted, 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 non-conformities are herein recognized by providing for their continuance, subject to regulations limiting their completion, restoration, reconstruction, extension and substitution. Furthermore, 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 prior to the effective date of this Zoning Ordinance. or any amendment thereto. Nevertheless, while it is the intent of this Zoning Ordinance that such non-conformities be allowed to continue until removed, they should not be encouraged to survive. Therefore, 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 Board of Zoning Appeals, except as otherwise specifically provided for in this Zoning Ordinance.
(Ord. 99-1966. Passed 5-4-99.)