Section 17.104.150 Nonconforming signs.

A. A sign, which was in existence prior to the adoption of this chapter under permit, shall be considered a legal nonconforming sign if it is not altered in any way that increases its noncompliance.

B. Signs located in areas annexed by the city after the adoption of this chapter shall be considered legal nonconforming signs except prohibited types of signs which shall be unlawful.

C. Any sign which is nonconforming shall nevertheless comply with this chapter if:

1. The sign is replaced including due to a change in business. Repairing the face does not constitute replacement;

2. The sign is abandoned as defined in Section 17.104.160;

3. The sign suffers damage of greater than fifty (50) percent of its appraised value;

4. Within seven years of the effective date of this chapter.

D. All nonconforming signs on a zoned lot shall be brought into compliance within ninety (90) calendar days of notice from the city if:

1. The use advertised is suspended for one hundred eighty (180) calendar days;

2. The use changes;

3. The name of the business or the franchise changes;

4. The sign is altered in any way except for ordinary maintenance; or

5. The sign is relocated.

E. Prohibited signs which were in existence prior to the adoption of this chapter shall not be considered legal nonconforming signs and shall be brought into compliance within ninety (90) calendar days of notice from the city.

F. Any roof sign extending higher than the ridge-line of the roof or parapet wall, or any billboards which were in existence prior to the adoption of this chapter shall be considered legal nonconforming signs if they are not altered in any way that increases their noncompliance. (Ord. 225 (part), 2003)