Any nonconforming use or structure existing on the effective date of this chapter may be continued upon the lot or in the structure so occupied; however, no nonconforming use, if once changed to a use permitted in the district, shall be changed back to a nonconforming use. If a nonconforming use of land or structure is abandoned, subsequent use of such land or structure shall be in conformance with the provisions of this chapter.

If a nonconforming structure, including a sign, is totally destroyed by fire or other cause, reconstruction of the structure shall be in conformance with the provisions of this chapter. Any nonconforming structure, including signs, may be restored or repaired in the event of partial destruction thereof.

A nonconforming use or structure cannot be extended, altered or increased nor can the land associated with such use or structure be increased or reduced in size or converted to any other nonconforming use or uses without a variance.

Any nonconforming lot legally existing on the date of adoption of this chapter, and not under the same ownership with any contiguous lot, may have a building permit issued for a permitted use without an appeal for a variance, provided that the building and improvement coverages are not exceeded; the new structure does not violate any height or setback requirements, and parking requirements are met.

In addition to the provisions of this Article, see also the provisions of Article X of this chapter regarding signs.