§ 54-84. Nonconforming signs.

(a)

Any sign lawfully existing or under construction on the effective date of the ordinance from which this chapter is derived which does not conform to one or more of the provisions of this chapter may be continued in operation and maintained as a legal nonconforming sign. All nonconforming signs may be allowed to remain until such time as:

(1)

The sign is abandoned;

(2)

The property owner or tenant changes or alters the sign in any manner other than by normal maintenance to the configuration existing at the time of enactment of this chapter; or

(3)

It is determined by the building official or his designee that the sign is a threat to the health, safety or welfare of the citizens.

(b)

It is a defense to prosecution under subsection (a) of this section if the sign has been made to comply with the provisions of this chapter so that a permit may be issued.

(c)

Signs erected without a permit, either prior to or after the adoption of this chapter, are illegal signs if a permit was required for its erection at the time the sign was erected. It shall be unlawful to maintain any illegal sign. By the passage of the ordinance from which this chapter is derived, no presently illegal sign shall be deemed to have been legalized unless such sign complies with all standards under the terms of this chapter and all other ordinances of the city.

(Ord. No. 2006-36, § 15.01, 12-12-2006)