Nonconforming uses.

Memphis Charter, art. 21, § 156

in effect

Sec. 156. - Nonconforming uses. The lawful use of a building existing at the time of adoption of an ordinance under the provisions of this Act, although such use does not conform to the provisions of such ordinance, may be extended throughout the building, provided no structural alterations except those required by law and ordinance are made therein. Where no structural alterations are made in a building of a nonconforming use, such use may be changed to a use of a similar or higher classification, according to the provisions of ordinances and regulations adopted under the authority of this Act. The lawful use of a premises existing at the time of adoption of an ordinance under the provisions of this Act, although such use does not conform to the provisions of such ordinance, may be continued; but if such nonconforming use is discontinued, any future use of said premises shall be in conformity with provisions of ordinances and regulations adopted under the authority of this Act. Where structural alterations are made in a building of nonconforming use, such building shall be changed in conformity with the provisions of ordinances and regulations adopted under the authority of this Act, for the district in which such building is located. When the boundary line of any use district divides a parcel of ground in common ownership, at the time of the adoption of the ordinance, under the provisions of this Act, nothing herein shall be construed to prevent the extension of the use existing on either portion of such parcel of ground, to the entire parcel, but for a distance of not greater than twenty-five (25) feet. Nothing in this Act shall be taken to prevent: (a) The erection of a building for which a permit shall have been issued previous to the passage of an ordinance under the provisions of this Act; (b) The restoration of a building destroyed to the extent of not more than 75 percent of its reasonable value, by fire, explosion, an act of God or the public enemy, and the occupancy or use of such building or part thereof, if such use existed at the time of such partial destruction; (c) The restoration of a wall declared unsafe by the building inspector. (Priv. Acts 1921, ch. 165, § 7)

Source: City of Memphis, Code of Ordinances and Charter and Related Laws (Municode Library, library.municode.com)URL: https://library.municode.com/tn/memphis/codes/charter?nodeId=PTICHRELA_ART21GEZORE_S156NOUSFetched: 10/28/2026