The requirements of this chapter shall apply to all small wind energy systems and large wind energy systems proposed after the effective date hereof. Wind energy systems for which a required permit has been properly issued prior to the effective date hereof shall not be required to meet the requirements of this chapter; provided, however, that any such system shall be installed and functioning within twenty four (24) months of the date of the permit. Any system that has been installed but not used for two (2) consecutive years may not be subsequently used without meeting the requirements of this chapter. No preexisting system shall be altered in any manner that would increase the degree of nonconformity with the requirements of this chapter and no alterations shall be made to a nonconforming preexisting system during its life which exceeds fifty percent (50%) of its fair market value. If such system is destroyed or damaged to the extent of more than fifty percent (50%) of its fair market value at the time of destruction or damage, it shall not be reconstructed except in conformity with this chapter. (Ord. 2012.04, 1-18-2012)