What is the definition of non-conforming use in zoning regulations?

Non-conforming use in zoning regulations refers to a property or land use that was established legally under previous zoning laws but does not conform to the current zoning regulations that have since been enacted. This means that the use is allowed to continue despite not meeting the present zoning classifications.

This concept is typically applied to situations where a property owner had an existing use that complied with the local zoning ordinances at the time of establishment, but changes in zoning laws or regulations render that use inconsistent with current zoning requirements. Thus, the non-conforming use must usually continue in a way that does not expand or intensify the use that is no longer compliant with the zoning ordinance.

In contrast, the other choices describe scenarios that do not accurately capture the essence of non-conforming use. Some focus on compliance (the first choice), temporary permissions (the third choice), or very specific agricultural purposes (the fourth choice), all of which are not true representations of what constitutes a non-conforming use in zoning.