Subject to the provisions of this article, the use of buildings or land existing at the time of enactment of this section may be continued even though such use does not conform with the provisions of this Planning and Zoning Code for the district in which such land is located; however, no enlargement or expansion of such nonconforming unit shall be permitted. No building may be constructed or structure altered or enlarged or extended so as to increase the floor space unless the use thereof is changed to the use conforming with the requirements of this Planning and Zoning Code. Nothing herein contained shall however, prevent the reconstruction or replacement of a building wholly or partially destroyed by fire, explosion, acts of God or public enemy or prevent the restoration of a wall deemed unsafe or defective and any building which has been so used may be replaced with a new building having similar facilities and occupying the same space and area, provided however, any replacement or restoration shall conform to the requirements of the Building Code of the State and the City.
(1960 Code 7-307)
A nonconforming use of a building or land which has been abandoned shall not thereafter be returned to such nonconforming use. A nonconforming use shall be deemed to be abandoned when any of the following events occur:
(a) Owners' intention to abandon is apparent.
(b) When abandoned for a period of more than one year.
(c) When the characteristic equipment and furnishings of the nonconforming use have been removed from the premises and have not been replaced by similar equipment within the period of ninety days unless other facts show intention to resume the nonconforming use.
(d) When nonconforming use has been changed to a conforming use or a use allowed by a special permit.
(1960 Code 7-308)