Any nonconforming use of land or structures may be continued for definite periods of time, subject to such regulations as the board of adjustment may require for immediate preservation of the adjoining property and the ultimate approval of the nonconforming use. If, however, a continuous operation is not carried on in such nonconforming use during a continuous period of six months, the building, other structure or tract of land where nonconforming use previously existed shall thereafter be occupied and used only for a conforming use. Intent to resume activity or operations shall not affect the foregoing.

(Code 1996, § 156.125; Ord. No. 1994-06, 3-1-1994)

A nonconforming use may be changed to any conforming use. A nonconforming use shall not be changed to any other type of nonconforming use without the prior approval of the board of adjustment which may grant a change of occupancy from one nonconforming use to another, provided the use is within the same or higher classification, as the original nonconforming use, that such nonconforming use and occupancy will not tend to prolong and continue nonconforming use. A nonconforming use once changed from a lower to a higher classification use shall not be changed thereafter to a lower classification use, and such prior lower classification use shall be considered abandoned.

(Code 1996, § 156.126; Ord. No. 1994-06, 3-1-1994)

A nonconforming use shall not be extended or rebuilt in case of obsolescence or total destruction by fire or other cause. In the case of partial destruction by fire or other causes not exceeding 50 percent of its value, the building inspector shall issue a permit for reconstruction. If greater than 50 percent and less than total, the board of adjustment may grant permit for repair after public hearing and having due regard for the property rights of the persons affected when considered in the light of public welfare and the character of the areas surrounding the designated nonconforming use.

(Code 1996, § 156.127; Ord. No. 1994-06, 3-1-1994)

A nonconforming use shall not be enlarged or extended, except upon authorization of the board of adjustment.

(Code 1996, § 156.128; Ord. No. 1994-06, 3-1-1994)

Normal maintenance of a building or a structure containing a nonconforming use is permitted, including necessary non-structural repairs and incidental alterations not extending the nonconforming use.

(Code 1996, § 156.129; Ord. No. 1994-06, 3-1-1994)

No structural alteration shall be made in a building or other structure containing a nonconforming use except that required by law.

(Code 1996, § 156.130; Ord. No. 1994-06, 3-1-1994)