How is "nonconforming use" defined in zoning regulations?

The definition of "nonconforming use" in zoning regulations refers to a situation where a property is used in a manner that was legal prior to the implementation of current zoning laws. When zoning regulations are established, certain existing land uses may no longer align with the new requirements but may continue to exist as nonconforming uses. These uses are often grandfathered in, meaning that they can continue to operate despite not conforming to the present zoning standards, as long as they were lawful before those regulations were put in place.

This concept plays an important role in zoning law, as it provides a degree of protection to existing property owners, allowing them to continue their established use without immediately being forced to comply with new regulations. Such protections often include stipulations on how the nonconforming use can be maintained, altered, or enlarged, to prevent disruptions in the community and to protect investment.

Other potential definitions, such as a use that conforms to current regulations, a temporary approval, or a use that requires special permits do not capture the essence of "nonconforming use." These concepts relate to compliant or conditional uses rather than addressing the situation of properties that were once compliant but no longer meet current zoning laws.