§ 138-201. Purpose and intent of division.

(a)

This division will provide for the regulation and restriction of uses, structures, lots/parcels, or combinations thereof, which were once lawfully established prior to the current requirements of the Pinellas County Code and continued thereafter, but which would be prohibited, restricted, or regulated under the terms of an updated code or future amendments thereto. While the general intent is for uses, structures and lots to conform to this Code, it is acknowledged that preexisting conditions/situations should be afforded some provisions for repair, maintenance, reuse, and modernization.

(b)

Nonconformities. Nonconforming uses, structures, and lots/parcels are:

(1)

Those created prior to zoning regulations adopted September 3, 1963; and/or

(2)

Those situations caused by the adoption and amendment of the Pinellas County Comprehensive Plan, Pinellas County Code, and/or State Statutes that make a previously conforming use nonconforming.

(c)

Continuation of nonconformities. It is the intent of this chapter to permit the continuance of nonconformities consistent with the parameters of the Pinellas County Code. However this shall not be used as grounds for adding other prohibited uses or structures on the site or in the area, nor enlarging them by means of extension or expansion, except as specifically provided by this chapter.

(d)

Nonconforming status remains with land. It is the intent that all the rights and obligations associated with a nonconforming status shall run with the land and are not affected by a change in ownership or tenancy, unless the nonconformity is abandoned or deteriorated in excess of 50 percent of its appraised valuation for tax purposes.

(e)

Future conformity. It is the general intent that new development, land usage, and lots/parcels conform to the Pinellas County Code.

(f)

Illegal uses and structures. Nothing in this chapter shall be deemed to allow the use, change in use, repair, alteration, expansion, enlargement, or reconstruction of an illegal use or structure. Any such illegal use shall be discontinued and any such illegal structure shall be removed.

(Ord. No. 18-36 , § 3(Att. B), 10-23-18)