A nonconforming building or structure existing at the time of the adoption of the ordinance from which this chapter is derived may be contained, maintained and repaired, except as otherwise provided in this article.

(Zoning Ord., § 501.1)

A nonconforming building or structure shall not be added to or enlarged in any manner unless said building or structure, including additions and enlargements, is made to conform to all of the regulations of the district in which it is located; provided, however, that if a building or structure is conforming as to use, but nonconforming as to yards or height, or off-street parking requirements of the district in which said building or structure is located, no nonconforming building or structure shall be moved in whole or in part to another location on the lot unless every portion of said building or structure is made to conform to all the regulations of the district in which it is located. A nonconforming building or structure shall not be repaired if it has received substantial damage or substantially improved, unless said building or structure, including additions and enlargements, is made to conform to all of the regulations of the district in which it is relocated.

(Zoning Ord., § 501.2)

Any structure or portion thereof, which is or hereafter becomes vacant and remains unoccupied for a continuous period of one year, shall not thereafter be occupied except by a use which conforms to the use regulations of the district in which it is located.

(Zoning Ord., § 501.4)

A variance to the zoning requirements may be granted when:

(1)

There are specific physical circumstances that distinguish the project from its surroundings; and

(2)

These unique circumstances would create an unnecessary hardship for the applicant if the enacted zoning standards were imposed.

(Zoning Ord., § 501.5)