If the landowner discontinues the nonconforming use after a specified period, commonly 21 years in many jurisdictions[where?]
but shorter in many others, then the nonconforming use will be terminated and parcel will become subject to the zoning requirements of the area in which it is located.
In some jurisdictions, if the structure exercising the nonconforming use is destroyed beyond a certain percentage (usually 50%) it cannot be rebuilt or repaired.
A reasonable exercise of an amortization end of the nonconforming use allows for a complete return on the investment.
Many property-rights advocacy groups are critical of amortization, because it forces property owners to cease a previously lawful use without providing them with any compensation.