(1) Legally Nonconforming. Except as otherwise provided in this section, signs in existence on the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter that do not conform to the provisions of this chapter, but that were constructed, erected, or maintained in full compliance with previous regulations, will be regarded as legal nonconforming.

(2) Compliance Required. Signs in existence on the effective date of the ordinance codified in this chapter that are not legal nonconforming or that are prohibited pursuant to CMC 18.55.050 shall be immediately made to comply with the provisions of this chapter or be abated in accordance with the procedure established in Chapter 1.30 CMC.

(3) Sign Face Change. A sign face or copy change on a nonconforming sign is not allowed when the affected property and sign structure have been abandoned pursuant to CMC 18.55.040.

(4) Repair – Restoration. Any part of a sign or sign structure may be repaired as normal maintenance, or restored to a safe condition, without loss of legal nonconforming status. Damage from acts of nature or vandalism to a nonconforming sign will keep its nonconforming status if the cost of the repair is less than 50 percent of the cost of replacing the nonconforming sign with a conforming sign; provided, that the replacement sign must be restored to the original design or a more conforming design.

(5) Alterations – Relocation – Replacement. Except for as provided herein, any legally nonconforming sign that is structurally altered, relocated, or replaced must immediately be brought into compliance with all applicable provisions of this chapter.

(6) Expansion or Change of Use. Any legally nonconforming sign on a nonresidential property must be brought into conformance with all applicable provisions of this chapter prior to any expansion or change in use which requires a development proposal or conditional use permit. No building permits for new construction may be issued until compliance with this provision is assured.

(7) Hazardous Signs. Any legally nonconforming sign or sign structure on private property, which, consequently, is a hazard to life and property, or which by its condition or location presents an immediate and serious danger to the public, must be removed or otherwise brought into compliance with this chapter pursuant to the enforcement provisions of this chapter.

(8) Variances. Variances may be granted using the variance procedure of this chapter to alleviate unusual hardships or extraordinary circumstances which exist in bringing nonconforming signs into conformity. (Ord. 08-18 § 2 (Exh. A))