Which of the following is a characteristic of a non-conforming building?

A non-conforming building is defined as a structure that was legally built in accordance with the codes and regulations in effect at the time of its construction, but does not comply with current zoning laws or building codes. This discrepancy often arises due to changes in regulations or the evolution of zoning laws over time.

When a building is non-conforming, it can continue to exist legally; however, any renovations or alterations may require compliance with the updated codes. It's important to understand that the status of being non-conforming is often tied to the fact that the building was once permissible.

The other options do not accurately describe non-conforming buildings. For instance, if a building has been updated to meet current codes, it would not be classified as non-conforming. Similarly, a building that has been altered to accommodate new zoning laws would also not fall under the definition of a non-conforming structure, as it would now meet current requirements. Lastly, the notion that a non-conforming building always requires a special permit for use is not universally applicable, as the specific regulations can vary based on local laws and the nature of the non-conformance.