To the extent that the provisions of this chapter and Chapters 18.25 and 18.30 CCO are the same in substance as the previously adopted provisions that they replace in the City’s zoning ordinances, they shall be considered as continuations thereof and not as new enactments unless otherwise specifically provided. In particular, a use, structure or lot that did not constitute a lawful nonconforming use, structure or lot under the previously adopted zoning ordinance does not achieve lawful nonconforming status under this title merely by the repeal of the prior zoning ordinance. [Code 1979 § 15.01.030.]