What is the term for the right of government to take private property for public use with compensation?

The term for the right of government to take private property for public use with compensation is known as eminent domain. This legal principle allows governmental entities to acquire private land for the benefit of the public, often for purposes such as building roads, schools, or parks. The key aspect of eminent domain is that the property owner is entitled to receive fair compensation for their property, which is intended to protect individual property rights while also allowing for the development and improvement of public infrastructure.

The concept of eminent domain is rooted in the belief that the government has the authority to act in the best interest of the community while still respecting the rights of property owners. This balance is vital for maintaining public welfare and promoting common goods. In the context of surveying and land use, understanding eminent domain is crucial for professionals as it impacts land acquisition processes and negotiations.

The other terms do not accurately reflect this specific right of the government. Condemnation refers specifically to the legal process used to exercise eminent domain, but it does not represent the broader right itself. Land use pertains to the management and regulation of land for various purposes but does not encapsulate the government's authority to appropriate private property. Property rights refer to the legal rights that individuals have to their own property, without including government powers like