§ 36.2-700. Purpose.

The purpose of this article is to regulate nonconforming uses, structures, and lots. The intent of these regulations is to:

(a)

Permit such nonconforming uses, structures, and lots to remain until removed, discontinued, abandoned, or changed to conform with the regulations of this chapter;

(b)

Recognize that nonconforming uses, structures, and lots are generally incompatible with the character of the districts in which they occur and, as such, in certain circumstances, such continuances should not be indefinite and that the nonconforming uses should gradually be removed in favor of uses, structures, and lots that conform to this chapter and the Official Zoning Map; and

(c)

Recognize that nonconforming uses, structures, and lots need not be entirely unchanged, and that under certain circumstances may change according to law and the provisions of this chapter.