(a) A sign conforming as to the regulations prevailing on the effective date of this chapter, but which does not conform with the regulations of this or a subsequent amendment, shall be construed as a legal nonconforming sign only in accordance with the following requirements:
(1) Repairs. Ordinary repairs and structural alterations may be allowed if a permit is issued.
(2) Additions and enlargements. A nonconforming sign shall not be added to or enlarged in any manner.
(3) Relocation. No nonconforming sign shall be moved, in whole or in part, to any other location unless such sign is made to conform to this chapter.
(4) Restoration of damaged sign. A nonconforming sign that is destroyed or damaged by fire or other cause to the extent that the cost of restoration will exceed fifty percent of the replacement cost of such sign shall not be restored unless it is made to conform to this chapter. In the event that such damage is less than fifty percent of the replacement cost of such sign, no repairs or construction shall be made unless such restoration is started within six months of the date of the partial damage and is diligently pursued to completion.
(5) Discontinuance of use. A nonconforming sign, the use of which is disconnected for a period of ninety days, shall thereafter conform to the regulations of this chapter.
(6) Change of use and/or ownership. Where the business use or ownership associated with the nonconforming sign at the date of this chapter thereafter terminates or changes, such termination or change of ownership shall require such sign to conform to this chapter.
(7) Decrease of size of building and lot. If a decrease in the size of a building or lot occurs that is identified by a nonconforming sign, and if the area of the sign exceeds the area allowed in this chapter for the decreased building or lot size, the nonconforming sign will be deemed illegal and must be replaced or altered to conform to this chapter.
(b) Any sign which is nonconforming pursuant to Chapter 171, Signs, Title Nine, Business Regulation, Part One, Administrative Code of the Codified Ordinances of the City of the City of Seven Hills is hereby declared a nuisance. The number of signs in the City of Seven Hills is excessive and is unduly distracting to motorists and pedestrians, creates a traffic hazard, and in some places reduces the effectiveness of signs needed to direct the public. As the appearance of the City is marred by the excessive number, oversized and poorly designed signs, both residential and business property values are adversely affected. Therefore, the number of such distracting signs ought to be reduced and signs permitted should comply with the standards of Chapter 171 in order to reduce the aforementioned effects.
(1) In view of the foregoing, all signs not conforming with the provisions of Chapter 171 are hereby declared a nuisance and shall either be removed, replaced or altered to comply with the requirements of this Chapter, based on conditions, requirements or penalties provided herein, no later than January 1, 2003. Any legal nonconforming sign embossed, etched, engraved or otherwise an integral part of the original building's masonry architecture which was in existence prior to the effective date of this subsection may be continued, provided that such sign is maintained as originally designed and intended.
(c) Whoever fails to comply with any provision of this section shall be subject to the penalties set forth in Section 171.99. (Ord. 48-2001. Passed 9-24-01.)