Which entity typically exercises eminent domain?

Which entity typically exercises eminent domain?

• A. A private developer seeking a profit
• B. The government or a public authority
• C. A homeowner who wants to subdivide property
• D. A neighborhood association

Answer: (B)

Eminent domain is the government's power to take private property for public use, provided compensation is paid. This authority sits with the government or a public authority—think cities, counties, states, or government-backed utilities. Private developers don’t have a free hand to condemn land; they can propose projects and acquire property through negotiation, but any exercise of eminent domain comes from a legal action taken by a government entity. Homeowners or neighborhood associations lack this power, so they cannot unilaterally seize property for public purposes.

Eminent domain is the government's power to take private property for public use, provided compensation is paid. This authority sits with the government or a public authority—think cities, counties, states, or government-backed utilities. Private developers don’t have a free hand to condemn land; they can propose projects and acquire property through negotiation, but any exercise of eminent domain comes from a legal action taken by a government entity. Homeowners or neighborhood associations lack this power, so they cannot unilaterally seize property for public purposes.