20.72.120 Legal nonconforming signs.
A. Continuance of Nonconforming Signs. Except as provided in subsection (D) of this section, a legal nonconforming sign may be continued and shall be maintained in good condition as required by CMC 20.72.110, but it shall not be:
1. Structurally changed to another nonconforming sign, although its copy and pictorial content may be changed;
2. Structurally altered to prolong the life of the sign, except to meet safety requirements; or
3. Expanded or altered in any manner that increases the degree of nonconformity.
B. Repair and Maintenance. Nonconforming signs shall only be painted and repaired in place and shall not be removed from their existing location unless removal of the sign for painting or repair is part of the sign’s customary maintenance and repair.
C. Change of Business Type or Ownership. Upon a change of ownership or business type, the new owner of a nonconforming sign may change the name(s) on the sign so long as there is no change in the structure or configuration of the sign.
D. Removal of Nonconforming Signs. Nonconforming signs shall be removed if:
1. The nonconforming sign is more than 50 percent destroyed and the destruction is other than facial copy replacement. A nonconforming sign shall be deemed to be more than 50 percent destroyed if the estimated cost of reconstruction and repair exceeds 50 percent of the replacement cost, as determined by the building official.
2. The nonconforming sign is remodeled, unless the sign is remodeled to comply with the provisions of this section.
3. Nonconforming signs shall be removed when a property is further developed in compliance with this zoning code.
4. Nonconforming signs shall be removed before the installation of new signs advertising the same business or any new business on the site.
5. The nonconforming sign is located on a structure that is to be enlarged or expanded, if the nonconforming sign is affected by the construction, enlargement, remodel, or expansion. An enlargement, remodel, or expansion of the portion of the structure upon which the nonconforming sign is located or that is more than 50 percent of the structure area shall be deemed to affect the nonconforming sign.
6. The nonconforming sign is temporary. (Ord. 690 § 4 (Exh. A), 2018).