(A) Continuation Permitted: Any nonconformity that lawfully existed on the date of adoption of this title or that becomes nonconforming upon the adoption of any amendment to this title may be continued in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
(B) Illegal Uses, Buildings, And Structures: Uses, buildings, and structures that were not lawfully established prior to adoption of this title will not become legal by virtue of its enactment. Illegal uses, buildings, and structures must be immediately brought into compliance with all ordinances of the city.
(C) Determination Of Nonconforming Status: The burden of establishing that a nonconformity exists will, in all cases, be upon the property owner of the nonconforming use, building or structure and not upon the city.
(D) Replacement Value: Replacement value for all structures will be interpreted as the assessed value of the improvement based on information obtained from the township assessor unless the applicant provides replacement value data prepared by a certified appraiser. When assessed value data is not available and the subject owner has not provided appraisal data, the zoning administrator is authorized to determine replacement value based on the best available data.
(E) Repairs And Maintenance: Incidental repairs and normal maintenance of nonconforming situations are permitted to maintain a property in sound condition, unless expressly prohibited by this title or other city ordinances. Examples of normal maintenance and incidental repairs include installation or relocation of nonbearing walls, nonbearing partitions, fixtures, equipment, wiring, roofing, and plumbing. Nothing in this chapter may be construed to prevent structures from being structurally strengthened or restored to a safe condition, in accordance with an official order of a public official.
(F) Safety Regulations: All police power regulations enacted to promote the public health, safety, and welfare including, but not limited to, all building, fire, and health codes, apply to nonconforming uses, buildings and structures.
(G) Tenancy And Ownership: The status of a nonconformity is not affected by changes of tenancy, ownership, or management. Nonconforming status "runs with the land". (Ord. 1379, 6-9-2008)