Chapter 15.54
NONCONFORMING USES, STRUCTURES AND LOTS
Sections:
15.54.010 Nonconforming uses and structures.
15.54.010 Nonconforming uses and structures.
A. The lawful use of land or structures existing at the time of the adoption of the ordinance codified in this title may be continued, even if the use does not conform to the regulations specified in this code for the district in which the land is located; provided, that no such nonconforming use or structure may be enlarged or increased, nor may any such nonconforming use be extended to occupy a greater area than that occupied by the use at the time of the adoption of the ordinance codified in this title, except in accordance with subsection (B) of this section.
B. The city council may grant a conditional use permit allowing a nonconforming use or structure to expand or enlarge in the use district in which is located, in accordance with RMC 15.48.010(E).
C. If any nonconforming use ceases for any reason (except as in subsection (D) of this section) for a period of one year or more, any subsequent use must be in conformance with the current land use regulations.
D. If a nonconforming structure is partially or completely destroyed, such as by fire, the nonconforming structure may be rebuilt, as long as the construction is complete within 18 months. After 18 months, any subsequent structure must be in conformance with the current land use regulations. (Ord. 1593, 1998)
15.54.020 Nonconforming lots.
A. Within the zoning districts established by this code there exist lots which were legally created before this code was adopted, but which would be prohibited under the terms of this code.
B. In the RS district, if the owner of a nonconforming lot wishes to construct a building on that lot, and can meet setback requirements and all other requirements of Chapter 15.26 RMC, new construction may occur. If setback requirements cannot be met, the property owner must combine the nonconforming lot with another lot in order to meet the minimum lot requirements for that district. (Ord. 1593, 1998)