What is a "conditional use permit" in zoning law?

A conditional use permit is designed to allow land to be used in a manner that is not typically permitted under the existing zoning regulations, but is acceptable under specific conditions set out by the zoning authority. This type of permit acknowledges that while the intended use does not conform to the standard zoning classification, it can be permissible if certain criteria are met.

For instance, if a neighborhood is zoned for residential use but a property owner wishes to open a daycare, which is not a standard use, the zoning board may grant a conditional use permit after evaluating factors such as the impact on the neighborhood, traffic, and overall community benefit. These permits may come with specific stipulations that the property owner must adhere to, ensuring that the unconventional use does not negatively affect surrounding properties or the community at large.

The other options lack the nuances that define a conditional use permit. They either imply compliance with standard zoning laws or suggest a permanent change to zoning classification, which does not reflect the temporary and conditional nature inherent in the concept of a conditional use permit.