Within the conventional zoning districts established by this Zoning Code, there exist lots, structures, uses of land and/or structures and characteristics of land use that were lawful before this Zoning Code was adopted, but which are no longer permitted. With regard to most nonconformities, it is the intent of this chapter to permit them to continue until they are discontinued for a long enough period to be deemed abandoned, or so severely damaged that they are substantially destroyed. It is further the intent of this section that nonconformities not be enlarged, expanded, extended or intensified. However, it is recognized that all nonconformities do not represent the same negative impact on the purposes of zoning, and some relief from these restrictions may be in the public interest as well as the interest of the owner of the nonconformity.
(Ord. 16-2003. Passed 5-1-03.)