(A) Within the districts established by this chapter or amendments that may later be adopted there exist lots, structures, and uses of land and structures that were lawful before this chapter was passed or amended, but would be prohibited or restricted under the terms of this chapter or amendment. It is the purpose of this chapter to permit these nonconformities to continue.
(B) To avoid undue hardship, nothing in this chapter shall be deemed to require a change in building plans if a permit for construction was issued prior to the effective date of adoption or amendment of this chapter and where actual building construction is carried on diligently. Where excavation or demolition or removal of an existing building has been substantially begun preparatory to rebuilding, such excavation or demolition or removal shall be deemed to be actual construction, provided that work shall be carried on diligently.
(1998 Code, § 66-236) (Ord. passed 9-5-2017)