(a) Signs in existence on the effective date of this ordinance which do not conform to the provisions of this Chapter, but which were constructed, erected, affixed, or maintained in compliance with all previous regulations, shall be regarded as nonconforming signs. Although it is not the intent of this section to encourage the continued use of nonconforming signs; nonconforming signs, except those specifically listed in Section 27-183, shall be allowed to continue and a decision as to the continued existence and use or removal of such signs shall be controlled as follows:

(1) No nonconforming sign shall be changed to another nonconforming sign. "Changing" includes replacing a sign panel within an existing frame with another panel of identical size or shape.

(2) No nonconforming sign shall have any changes made in the words or symbols used or the message displayed on the sign unless the sign is specifically designed for periodic change of message.

(3) No nonconforming sign shall be structurally altered so as to change the shape, size, type, or design.

(4) No nonconforming sign shall be re-established after the activity, business, or use to which it relates has been discontinued or changed to another use. Such signs shall be removed in accordance with Section 27-182.

(5) No nonconforming sign shall be re-established and all remains of the sign must be removed in accordance with Section 27-182 if the sign is damaged or destroyed, such that the estimated expense of repairs exceeds fifty (50) percent of the estimated total value of the sign at the time of damage or destruction. If damaged by less than fifty (50) percent of the estimated total value, but repairs are not made within three (3) months of the time such damage occurs, the nonconforming sign shall not be allowed to continue and must be removed in accordance with Section 27-182.

(6) No nonconforming sign shall be relocated.

(7) Normal maintenance and repair of a nonconforming sign is permitted providing the shape, size, type, or design of the sign is not altered.

(b) Signs located on premises which come into the extraterritorial planning and zoning jurisdiction of the City of Washington after the effective date of this ordinance, which signs do not comply with the provisions of this Article, shall be subject to the requirements listed in subsection (a) above.

(c) Any nonconforming sign which is structurally altered, relocated, or replaced shall immediately be brought into compliance with all the provisions of this Article, and be subject to Section 27-182, Sign Removal and Discontinued Signs.

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