Which of the following terms applies to property use that has been allowed to continue despite zoning changes?

Nonconforming use refers to a situation where a property is allowed to continue its existing use, even though changes in zoning laws may render that use incompatible with the new zoning regulations. This concept is important in real estate because it provides protection for existing land uses that predate the current zoning designations, allowing property owners to maintain their investment without being forced to change their use or demolish the structure.

Typically, nonconforming uses are recognized to avoid undue hardship on property owners who have not committed any wrongdoing; rather, they simply invested based on older regulations. Nonconforming uses can usually continue indefinitely, although they may be subject to specific restrictions regarding expansion or changes, depending on local laws.

In contrast, conforming use describes land that complies with current zoning regulations, illegal use refers to uses that violate zoning laws without any allowance for continuation, and varianced use involves a special exception or allowance granted by a zoning board that permits a property to deviate from current zoning regulations under certain circumstances. Each of these terms relates to different aspects of zoning and property use, but nonconforming use specifically addresses the continuation of a property's use despite changes in zoning.