An improvement to a local restaurant, constructed before zoning laws, that differs from current zoning is known as?

The correct answer refers to an improvement that was established when zoning laws were different. This condition is known as "legal nonconforming use." Essentially, it allows a property to continue its existing use, despite the fact that the current zoning laws may not allow that specific use.

In this scenario, the restaurant was built before the new zoning regulations were enacted, meaning it has a legal right to operate as it has been, even though it does not conform to the current zoning requirements. The town recognizes this situation, allowing the restaurant to maintain its operational status without forcing it to change or shut down. This form of nonconforming use is distinguished by its legality; the use was permitted at the time of its establishment.

In contrast, a variance refers to a request to deviate from the current zoning requirements, which is not applicable here since the restaurant was built prior to the new laws and does not need special permission to continue operating. A special exception typically allows uses in zoning that are not generally permitted but may be allowed under specific circumstances and with conditions, again not relevant in this case. An illegal nonconforming use would imply some form of illegality in the operation, which is not the case here. Thus, the legal nonconforming use