What might be required if a non-conforming structure is damaged beyond a certain extent?

The requirement for a non-conforming structure that is damaged beyond a specified extent to be rebuilt in compliance with current codes reflects a fundamental principle of zoning and building regulations. When a structure is deemed non-conforming, it means it was built before the current zoning codes were established, and it does not meet the current standards. However, if that structure sustains significant damage, the objective of the code is to ensure that any repairs or reconstruction are up to modern safety, health, and aesthetic standards.

Requiring such structures to be brought into compliance with current codes not only helps safeguard the well-being of inhabitants but also promotes uniformity and standardization within the community's building practices. This approach aids in minimizing potential hazards that could arise from older construction techniques or materials that may not withstand current safety expectations.

In contrast to repairing non-conforming structures without restrictions or maintaining their non-conforming status indefinitely, the emphasis on compliance indicates a necessary progression towards enhancing the overall safety and functionality of the built environment. Demolishing the structure, while an option under certain conditions, is not universally required and often not the first recourse in these situations.