Condemnation (Eminent Domain)
Gridlync land and infrastructure glossary.
Condemnation is the process by which a government or authorized entity takes private property for public use under eminent domain, paying the owner just compensation. Many infrastructure corridors involve condemnation where voluntary agreements can’t be reached. The taking authority must show a public purpose and pay fair market value, which is often litigated when the owner disputes the offered amount. Utilities and pipeline companies granted condemnation power use it to complete corridors where a few owners refuse to sign.
Records of condemnation and the resulting compensation belong in the land file. Gridlync keeps acquisition documents organized for each parcel.
Example
After the Ferris family declines its easement offer, Highline Transmission uses its condemnation authority to acquire a 100-foot corridor across their land for a power line, and a court sets just compensation at $78,000 after appraisals from both sides.