Nothing in this chapter shall prevent the restoration of a nonconforming building partially destroyed by fire, explosion, act of God, or act of public enemy, provided that, after restoration, the building and the use thereof shall not violate this chapter to any greater extent than existed prior to the restoration. Any building totally destroyed in the manner aforesaid may only be rebuilt as a conforming use.

The owner of any nonconforming use that is partially destroyed as above mentioned must apply for a building permit to rebuild the nonconforming use within 12 months from the time of destruction. If the application to rebuild the nonconforming use is filed after the above-mentioned twelve-month period, a building permit will only be issued for a conforming use. Nothing in this chapter shall prevent the restoration of a wall declared unsafe by the Construction Official.