What is the "nonconforming use" concept?

The concept of "nonconforming use" pertains to properties that have been used in a certain manner that was legal before the enactment or amendment of zoning regulations but no longer comply with the current zoning requirements. Essentially, these uses exist because they were established under older zoning laws that were in effect when the property was first utilized in that way.

When a property is identified as having a nonconforming use, it signifies that the use did not violate any laws at the time it was initiated. As zoning laws evolve—often to accommodate changing community standards or development goals—some existing uses become nonconforming. These uses are often allowed to continue under certain conditions, which can include limitations on altering the property or expanding the nonconforming aspect of the use. Understanding nonconforming use is crucial for code enforcement officers, as it helps balance the enforcement of modern zoning regulations with the rights of property owners who established their operations legally in the past.