Except as otherwise provided in this article, any nonconforming use or structure existing at the time of passage of this Part 5 may be continued upon the lot or in the structure so occupied.

A nonconforming use shall be adjudged as abandoned when there occurs a cessation of any such use or activity by an apparent act or failure to act on the part of the tenant or owner to reinstate such use within a period of two years from the date of cessation or discontinuance. Any subsequent use of such property shall be in conformity with the provisions of this Part 5.

If any nonconforming building shall be partially destroyed, it may be restored or repaired, provided that a building permit is obtained within one year after the destruction thereof and work is commenced within 18 months and completed within two years after the destruction thereof.

No nonconforming use shall, if once changed into a conforming use, be changed back again into a nonconforming use.

No nonconforming use may be expanded or intensified, nor may a structure in which a nonconforming use is carried on be expanded or altered without the approval of the Zoning Board of Adjustment pursuant to N.J.S.A. 40:55D-70(d)(2).