(A) Definition: A "nonconforming sign" is a sign and its supporting structure which does not conform to all or part of the provisions of this chapter, and:
1. Was in existence and lawfully erected prior to the effective date of this chapter;
2. Was in existence and lawfully located and used in accordance with the provisions of the prior ordinance applicable thereto, or which was considered legally nonconforming thereunder, and has since been in continuous or regular use; or
3. Was in existence, located, and used on the premises at the time it was annexed into the city limits or included in the city's area of impact and has since been in regular and continuous use.
(B) Repair Or Replacement: Any nonconforming sign and its supporting structure, which is destroyed, damaged, dilapidated or deteriorated, may be replaced or repaired providing:
1. The new sign does not have a nonconforming feature that the original sign did not have,
2. The new sign does not exceed the size of the original sign,
3. A nonconforming sign is not expanded or changed, and
4. A sign permit for the replacement or repair is issued within six (6) months of the date of the damage. The planning and zoning commission may approve requests for extensions within the original six (6) months.
(C) No Increase In Dimension: No sign or supporting structure which is lawfully reproduced, repaired, or renovated as a nonconforming sign shall be increased in area or height.
(D) Change Of Interior Panel Allowed: Changing an interior panel of a nonconforming sign is allowed in all cases.
(E) Relocation: Notwithstanding any other provision of this chapter, any sign which is a legally existing nonconforming sign hereunder may be relocated on the same lot or tract of land, if the sign is required to be removed from its present location because the property upon which the sign is located is acquired by any governmental agency or other entity which has or could have acquired the property through the exercise of its power of eminent domain. Such relocated sign shall be placed, insofar as possible, as to comply with all the provisions of this chapter. (Ord. 2957, 12-8-2008)