What is characterized as nonconforming use?

Nonconforming use refers to a situation where a property is used in a way that does not comply with current zoning regulations or land use controls but has been legally established before those regulations took effect. This means that although the use of the property is not in alignment with the prevailing zoning laws, it can still continue to operate under specific conditions, often as a means to allow existing businesses or residences to remain functional despite changes in the law.

In this context, the characterization of nonconforming use as violating land use controls indicates that it is an exception to the rule of compliance with zoning regulations. Often, it provides a degree of protection to property owners against abrupt changes that could otherwise render their established uses illegal. Thus, while the term implies a non-compliance aspect, it also acknowledges the legality of the situation based on its historical usage prior to the enforcement of new regulations.