Any use of land or of a structure which was lawful at the time this chapter became effective, or any amendment thereto, may be continued if the use shall have continued in operation and does not constitute a nuisance. A nonconforming use shall not be enlarged, altered or changed in area, activity or content during its continuance. Any nonconforming use which ceases operation for a period of six consecutive months or more shall be considered to have terminated and may not thereafter be conducted.

The use or occupancy of a nonconforming structure which was a lawful structure at the time this chapter became effective, or any amendment thereto, may be continued. No enlargement, change or alteration shall be permitted except upon a finding by the CEO that such enlargement, change or alteration will result in greater compliance with this chapter and that the use within such structure conforms to the requirements of this chapter. The applicant may appeal a negative finding of the CEO to the Zoning Board of Appeals. The Zoning Board of Appeals may require conditions to minimize any detrimental effects of the nonconforming use upon adjoining conforming uses.

Any lot which was lawful at the time this chapter became effective, or any amendment thereto, but does not comply with all of the provisions of this chapter may continue in use. The change in use of or the location, modification or construction of any structure on such lot shall not be permitted except upon the granting of a variance by the Zoning Board of Appeals and subject to such conditions as the Zoning Board of Appeals finds appropriate.

A nonconforming structure or a structure housing a nonconforming use which has been damaged by fire or act of God after the effective date of this chapter may be restored, rebuilt or repaired, provided that such restoration, rebuilding or repair is commenced within six months after the damage and is completed within one year of the date of damage.