"Eminent domain" is a governmental entity’s legal authority to take private property for public use. When this occurs, the governmental entity must pay the landowner fair value (or "just compensation") for their property. The US. Constitution and the Texas Constitution restrict the government's power of eminent domain. Governmental entities have eminent domain authority over properties that are located both inside and outside their tax jurisdiction. The State’s eminent domain authority is delegated by specific statutes to state agencies, political subdivisions (i.e. cities, counties and special districts) and even some private entities. An entity with eminent domain authority to initiate condemnation proceedings may be referred to as condemning authority, condemning entity or condemnor.
State and local governments may acquire property for many reasons. If the government needs a landowner’s private property for a public use and the landowner refuses to sell, then Texas law allows the government to take the property through a condemnation proceeding by exercising the power of eminent domain. In addition to governmental bodies, some private entities have condemnation authority – but only for a public purpose. An example is a public utility which provides services to the public.
Note: To discussion, "government" may be used to refer to all of these entities that have eminent domain authority.
Learn how to protect yourself when a company or the government wants to take your land by clicking to download your free copy of the Texas Eminent Domain Guide.
Act Now to Protect Your Rights and Your Land.
Condemnation projects move quickly and deadlines affect your legal rights, so don't delay contacting an eminent domain attorney.
If you want to learn how we can help protect your rights as a Texas landowner, and get the peace of mind that comes with:
- A free confidential review of your case
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