A property that is designated as having nonconforming use is considered as which of the...

A nonconforming use refers to a property use that was lawful when established but does not comply with a subsequently adopted zoning ordinance. Option A correctly defines this as “not complying with the zoning ordinance but lawfully established before the ordinance was adopted.” The APA’sAICP Certification Exam Content Outline(2022), under “Plan and Policy Development,” states, “Nonconforming uses are those that were legal prior to the adoption of a zoning ordinance but do not conform to the new regulations.” Option B (allowed by the zoning appeals board) confuses nonconforming uses with variances. Option C (inconsistent with the neighborhood but permitted) is vague and not the legal definition. Option D (expanding after adoption) is incorrect, as nonconforming uses are typically restricted from expansion. TheCPC Study Manual(2024) confirms, “A nonconforming use is one that was lawfully established before a zoning change and does not comply with the new ordinance,” supporting option A.