Tangier City Zoning Code

6-1. Intent Some existing lots, uses, structures or combinations of uses and structures will not meet the requirements set out by this ordinance for districts. These nonconformities (hereinafter “nonconforming uses”) are declared by this ordinance to be incompatible with the requirements, of the districts. It is the intent of this ordinance to allow nonconforming uses to continue until they are removed or discontinued but not in any way to encourage their survival; nor to permit their enlargement, expansion or extension; nor to permit their use as a grounds for adding other structures or uses which would be prohibited in the district involved.

6-2.   Continuation.   A nonconforming use may continue provided that it remains otherwise; lawful, subject to the provisions set forth in this section:

A. Change in title. If any change in title of possession or renewal of a lease of any such lot j or structure occurs, the use existing may be continued.   

B. Abandonment.   If any nonconforming use (structure or activity) is discontinued for a period exceeding two (2) years after the enactment of this ordinance, it shall be deemed abandoned and any subsequent use shall conform to the requirements of this ordinance. 

C. Expansion. No nonconforming use shall be enlarged or extended to cover a greater land area than was occupied by the nonconformity of the effective date of this ordinance.

D. Damage or destruction.   If a nonconforming use is damaged or destroyed, it may be reconstructed or restored to its prior condition and location within two (2) years of its being damaged or destroyed, and the nonconformity man continue as before. If it is not reconstructed or restored within two (2) years, any subsequent use shall conform to the requirements of this ordinance.