The lawful use of any building or structure or of any land existing and lawful at the time of the effective date of this Zoning Code (Ordinance 53-5-1, passed June 2, 1953), may be continued although such use does not conform to the provisions of this Zoning Code. However, if any such nonconforming use is discontinued by the removal of equipment, the alteration of fittings or a change in the essential purposes of such use, or is voluntarily discontinued for a period of one year or more, any future use of such land shall be in conformity with the provisions of this Zoning Code. No enlargement, expansion or reconstruction of such nonconforming use or building shall be made, except upon determination by the Planning Commission that unnecessary hardship would otherwise be imposed. However, restoration, substitution or reconstruction of single-family dwellings and/or accessory buildings thereto shall not be construed as changes in a nonconforming use.

(Ord. 78-5-2. Passed 5-2-78.)

   No change shall be required by this Zoning Code in the plans, construction or designated uses of a building or structure which does not conform to the regulations of this Zoning Code for the district in which its premises are located, provided construction on such building or structure was begun before the effective date of this Zoning Code (Ordinance 53-5-1, passed June 2, 1953) and completed within six months thereof. For the purposes of this Zoning Code, such construction shall be deemed an existing nonconforming use.

(Ord. 53-5-1. Passed 6-2-53.)