Land Use & Zoning

What is 'eminent domain'?

AThe right of a property owner to prevent trespassers
BThe government's power to take private property for public use, provided just compensation is paid to the owner✓ Correct
CThe state's right to tax real property
DThe government's power to zone land

Explanation

Eminent domain is the government's power to take private property for a public use or purpose. The government must pay the owner 'just compensation' (typically fair market value). The legal process of exercising eminent domain is called 'condemnation.'

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