What characterizes a "non-conforming use" in zoning laws?

A non-conforming use in zoning laws is characterized by being a lawful use that was established prior to changes in zoning regulations. When a locality implements new zoning laws, existing land uses that do not comply with these new regulations may be allowed to continue as "non-conforming uses." This allowance is typically granted to avoid disrupting businesses and developments that were legally established before the new zoning rules came into effect.

For instance, if a neighborhood that was once zoned for industrial use transitions to residential zoning, a factory that was operating before the zoning change might continue its operations as a non-conforming use. While the factory's operations no longer align with the current zoning, it is allowed to exist because it was compliant at the time it was established.

In contrast, options that suggest compliance with current regulations or necessitating special permits do not accurately define non-conforming uses. A permanent outlawing of a use fundamentally contradicts the concept of non-conformity, which inherently allows for the continuation of established uses despite new zoning changes.