Any lawful nonconforming use which existed on the date of adoption
of this chapter may be continued, and any existing structure designed,
arranged, intended or devoted to a nonconforming use may be structurally
altered, subject to the following regulations:
A.
A nonconforming use shall not be enlarged unless the use is changed
to a conforming use; provided, however, that, where a building meets
the use requirements of this chapter and is nonconforming because
of height, area and/or yard regulations, said use may be enlarged,
provided that the height, area or yard regulations are not further
violated.
B.
A nonconforming use changed to a conforming use shall not thereafter
be changed back to a nonconforming use.
C.
A nonconforming use in existence at the time of adoption of this
chapter shall not be permitted to be changed to another nonconforming
use.
D.
In the event that there is a cessation of operation of any nonconforming
use for a period of 24 consecutive calendar months, the same shall
be prima facie evidence of an abandonment of the use. Any subsequent
exercise of such abandoned nonconforming use shall be deemed a violation
of the terms of this chapter.
Nothing in this chapter shall require any change in plans, construction
or designated use of a structure for which a building permit has been
issued when construction has been diligently prosecuted within six
months following the date of such permit and completed within the
terms of such permit.
Any nonconforming use or structure existing at the time of adoption
of this chapter may be continued upon the lot or in the building so
occupied or any structure may be restored or repaired within one year
in the event of partial destruction thereof. In the event that reconstruction
is not commenced within such period, then the entire structure shall
be razed by the owner.
Nothing in this chapter shall be interpreted as implied authorization
for or approval of the continuance of the use of a structure or premises
in violation of zoning regulations in effect at the time of adoption
of this chapter.
The foregoing provisions of this Article shall also apply to
structures, land or uses which hereafter become nonconforming due
to any reclassification of zones under this chapter or any subsequent
change in the regulations of this chapter.
