What is a non-conforming use?

It is a legal violation of the current zoning ordinance because the use of the land existed before the ordinance was passed.  Nonconforming uses are often referred to as “grandfathered” uses. 

Show All Answers

1. What is zoning?
2. What else do zoning laws regulate?
3. Who controls zoning?
4. Is zoning permanent?
5. How do I find out how a property is zoned?
6. What is a variance?
7. May I operate a business at my residence?
8. Can zoning laws prohibit the number of unrelated persons living together in a single-family home?
9. Can I have a kennel on my property?
10. Why can I not park my car in my front or rear yard?
11. Do I need a fence permit to erect a fence?
12. Can I convert my basement or room over my garage into an apartment?
13. What are the ramification for violating zoning law?
14. What are permitted uses?
15. What are exceptions?
16. What is a conditional use?
17. What is a non-conforming use?
18. When do non-conforming uses create a problem?
19. How do I oppose a rezoning request?
20. How do I challenge a proposed rezoning change?
21. How do I find my property pins?
22. What is a setback?
23. What are the fencing requirements in the City of Emporia?