A nonconforming use of a building or premises that has been abandoned shall not thereafter be returned to the nonconforming use. A nonconforming use shall be considered abandoned when the:
(A) Intent of the owner to discontinue the use is apparent; or
(B) Characteristic equipment and the furnishings of the nonconforming use have been removed from the premises and have not been replaced by similar equipment within six months, unless other facts show intention to resume the nonconforming use, or when it has been replaced by a conforming use, or where the use is discontinued or abandoned six months or for 18 months during any three-year period.
(2000 Code, § 66-147) (Ord. 75-01, passed 7-14-1975)