Nonconforming use refers to the utilization of land that lawfully existed prior to the enactment of a new zoning ordinance and can be maintained even after the ordinance's effective date, even though it no longer complies with the new use restrictions applicable to the area.
Preexisting use refers to a land use that does not conform to the current zoning code but is allowed to continue because the use was in effect at the time the current code was passed. Also known as nonconforming use, this status typically comes with specific conditions on improvements and rebuilding of the existing structures.
