Petti v. City of Richmond Heights

The issue presented is whether appellant has a right to use the premises, located in a residential zone, for private professional offices based upon the school board’s prior use as offices. For the following reasons, we conclude that appellant’s proposed use of the premises is illegal and should be denied.

Appellant contends that he has a right to use the building for private professional offices based upon a nonconforming use established by the school board. Although a nonconforming use may be established when the requirements are satisfied, zoning ordinances usually contemplate the gradual…