What does the term "non-conforming use" mean in zoning?

The term "non-conforming use" refers to a situation in zoning where a particular use of a property was established before the enactment of current zoning laws, and thus does not comply with those laws. This type of use may continue legally even though it is not consistent with the current zoning regulations, because it predates them. Non-conforming uses are often allowed to persist to avoid unfairly penalizing property owners who were operating under the rules that existed at the time the use began.

This concept is crucial in zoning law to balance the interests of property rights and effective land use planning. Properties with non-conforming uses often cannot be expanded or significantly altered, and if they cease operation for a certain period, they might lose their non-conforming status.

The other options relate to different aspects of zoning and property usage. Uses that comply with current laws represent a different category known as conforming uses, while recommendations by local authorities typically pertain to zoning proposals rather than existing conditions. Prohibited uses refer to those actions or activities entirely banned by current zoning regulations, which is distinctly different from the allowances made for non-conforming uses.