A neighborhood grocery store no longer complies with the law because a new zoning ordinance is adopted so that the property is zoned for residential use. Nevertheless, the owner is allowed to continue to operate the grocery store. This is an example of

A variance is a legal exception that allows a property owner to use their land in a way that deviates from the zoning ordinance. In this scenario, the grocery store is not granted a variance; it is simply allowed to continue its operation despite the new zoning law, which does not provide an exception.

Spot zoning refers to the practice of singling out a small area of land for a use that differs from the surrounding zoning. This situation does not involve designating the grocery store for a different use; rather, it involves the store remaining operational despite a zoning change, which is not spot zoning.

A conditional use permit allows a property owner to use their property in a way that is not typically allowed in that zoning district, subject to certain conditions. However, the grocery store is not operating under a permit; it is continuing as a nonconforming use without needing such approval due to the prior establishment of the business.