When a property use does not comply with current zoning laws but was established legally, it is referred to as what type of use?

When a property use does not comply with current zoning laws but was established legally, it is referred to as a legal nonconforming use. This term is used to describe situations where a property was developed or used in a manner that was permissible when it was created but has since become inconsistent with new zoning regulations.

A legal nonconforming use is generally considered a valid claim to maintain the existing use of the property, even as new zoning laws are enacted. This protects property owners from losing their investment or being forced to change their use simply because the regulations have changed over time. Such uses can typically continue even if they do not meet current zoning standards, as long as they were in compliance at the time they were established.

In contrast, illegal nonconforming use refers to uses that were not legally established and therefore lack any protection under zoning laws, while a variance is an official exception granted to property owners to deviate from the specific requirements of the zoning ordinance, usually because of unique circumstances. A special exception, on the other hand, allows for a use that is not typically permitted under the zoning ordinance but can be deemed acceptable under certain conditions. The distinction of legal nonconforming use is important as it provides a safeguard for property rights amidst