Lancaster City Zoning Code
ARTICLE X
Nonconforming Uses, Structures and Lots
§ 455-73 Existing nonconforming uses and structures.
[Amended 11-17-2014 by Ord. No. 2014-05]
The lawful nonconforming use of a structure, land or water existing at the time of adoption or amendment of this chapter may be continued although the use does not conform to the provisions of this chapter. However:
A.
Additions or alterations to existing nonconforming structures may be permitted only where such additions or alterations do not increase the degree of nonconformity by extending into the substandard yard or setback greater than the existing structure and otherwise meet all of the requirements of this chapter.
B.
Substitution of one nonconforming use by another nonconforming use of equal or lesser degree of conformity may be permitted by the Zoning Board of Appeals in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. When a nonconforming use is damaged by fire, explosion, flood, public enemy or other calamity to the extent of 50% of its current assessed value, it shall not be restored except so as to comply with the provisions of this chapter.
C.
Nothing in this section shall prohibit the repair, maintenance, renovation, remodeling or restoration of a nonconforming structure in accordance with the provisions of § 62.23(7)(hb) and (hc), Wis. Stats.
§ 455-74 Abolishment or replacement.
If a nonconforming use is discontinued or terminated for a period of 12 consecutive months, any future use of the structure, land, or water shall conform to the provisions of this chapter.
§ 455-75 Changes and substitutions.
Once a nonconforming structure or use has been changed to conform to this chapter, it shall not revert back to a nonconforming use or structure. Once the Zoning Board of Appeals has permitted the substitution of a new nonconforming use for an existing nonconforming use, the substituted use shall continue to be a nonconforming use subject to the provisions of this article.
§ 455-76 Substandard lots.
In any residential district a one-family detached dwelling and its accessory structure may be erected on a legal lot or parcel of record in the County Register of Deeds office before the effective date of adoption or amendment of this chapter, provided that such lots and parcels shall comply with all of the district requirements insofar as practical, but such lots and parcels shall not be less than the following:
A.
Minimum lot width: 40 feet.
B.
Minimum lot area: 4,000 square feet.
C.
Minimum yards.
(1)
Street: 25 feet; the second street yard on corner lots shall be a minimum of 10 feet.
(2)
Rear: 25 feet.
(3)
Sides: 25% of the lot width, but not less than five feet for each side yard.