Except as otherwise provided herein, the owner of any zone lot or other premises on which exists a sign that does not conform with the requirements of this Code or for which there is no current and valid sign permit shall be obligated to remove the sign or, in the case of a nonconforming sign, to bring it into conformity with the requirements of this Code.
(A) Nonconforming existing signs, permits and terms. A sign that would be permitted under this Code only with a sign permit, but which was in existence on the date of adoption of this Code or on a later date when the property is annexed to the village, and which was constructed in accordance with the Code and other applicable laws in effect on the date of its construction, but which by reason of its size, height, location, design or construction is not in conformance with the requirements of this Code, shall be considered a nonconforming sign. The above described nonconforming signs shall be allowed to remain in place and be maintained provided that no action is taken which increases the degree or extent of the nonconformity. A change in the information on the face of an above described nonconforming sign is allowed. However, any nonconforming sign shall either be eliminated or made to conform with the requirements of this section when any proposed change, repair or maintenance would constitute an expense of more than 25% of the lesser of the original value or replacement value of the sign.
(B) Sign removal required. A sign that was constructed, painted, installed or maintained in conformance with a permit under this Code, but for which the permit has lapsed (per § 151.116(C) or modifications under division (A) above), shall be forthwith removed without notice or action from the village.