Land Use & Zoning
In Minnesota, a municipality's zoning ordinance cannot be applied retroactively to a use that was legally established before the ordinance was enacted. This principle protects:
AOnly agricultural uses
BNonconforming uses that were legal when established (grandfathered uses)✓ Correct
CAny commercial use regardless of when established
DOnly religious uses
Explanation
The principle of nonconforming use (grandfathered use) protects lawful uses that were established before a zoning ordinance was enacted or changed. The owner may continue the use (though not expand it), and the use cannot be retroactively prohibited. This is a fundamental protection under Minnesota and constitutional law.
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