Any single-family, duplex, or multifamily residential structure with a nonconforming use damaged by fire, explosion, accident, act of God or act of the public enemy may be restored to its status prior to the act of damage, provided such efforts are commenced within one year. If restored under these circumstances, the use shall occupy no more floor area than existed prior to the act of damage and the use and building shall remain nonconforming. If reconstruction of a nonconforming structure is not commenced within one year of the act of damage thereafter, the land and any development on it shall thereafter conform to the regulations of the zone in which it is located; provided, that a conditional use permit may be issued to reestablish a nonconforming structure, the restoration of which is not commenced within one year if circumstances such as lengthy litigation or disputed insurance settlements delay the applicant from commencing reconstruction within the specified one-year time frame.