Anything contained elsewhere in this chapter to the contrary notwithstanding, any single-family dwelling which was in existence on the date of the adoption of this and which is totally destroyed in any manner either by design or by accident, may be reconstructed upon its former location provided that the exterior dimensions of such dwelling, as reconstructed, are no greater than the exterior dimensions of the original structure. Such reconstruction shall not constitute a violation of any of the yard, area, height, or building area requirements of the zone within which such dwelling is located.