Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

grandfather-clause

noun

/ˈɡrændˌfɑːðər klɔːz/

Definition

A provision in a law that allows individuals or entities to continue to follow an older set of regulations or standards, even when new laws or rules have been enacted that are different.

Examples

Many businesses were able to operate without changing their practices due to the grandfather clause.
The grandfather clause in the new zoning law allowed homeowners to keep their gardens despite new regulations.

Meaning

The term ‘grandfather clause’ refers to a rule that exempts certain individuals or businesses from a new law or regulation based on prior conditions being met, such as being in existence before the new law was enacted.