§ 18-405. Restoration of damaged structures.

(a) In general.

If a nonconforming structure is damaged or destroyed, the structure may be repaired or reconstructed as long as no new nonconformities are created and the existing degree of nonconformity is not increased.

(b) Timely restoration required.

(1) A building permit must be obtained for the repair or reconstruction within 2 years of the date of the damage or destruction.

(2) The Board of Municipal and Zoning Appeals may grant an extension of this period.

(c) Effect of failure to act timely.

If the building permit is not obtained within the time required by this section or the repairs not completed within 1 year of the issuance of the building permit, then the structure may not be restored unless the structure conforms to all regulations of the district in which it is located.