Easement

Definition: An easement is a nonpossessory right in another person’s land that allows a specified use or protects a specified benefit.

Example

A recorded driveway easement allows the owner of a rear parcel to cross a defined strip of the front parcel to reach the road.

Keep the distinction clear

An easement does not give ownership or general possession of the burdened parcel. Its scope matters: a right to cross a driveway is not automatically permission to use the whole yard.

Related terms

Easement Appurtenant · Easement in Gross · Encumbrance · Encroachment

Keep studying

Easements: Appurtenant, In Gross, Necessity, and Termination

References: Cornell LII: Easement

Pronunciation (US): EEZ-muhnt (capitals show stress)

Pronunciation reference: Merriam-Webster