What is an easement?

• A. A right to cross or otherwise use someone else's land for a specified purpose
• B. A financial loan secured by land
• C. A license to use land temporarily
• D. A building permit

Answer: (A)

An easement is a non-possessory right to use someone else’s land for a specific purpose. It doesn’t grant ownership or possession of the land itself, just a continuing use—like crossing the property or laying and using utilities—under defined terms. Easements can benefit a particular piece of land (appurtenant) or a person or organization (in gross) and are created by deed, agreement, prescription, or necessity. They typically run with the land, meaning they remain even if ownership changes.

This fits the concept because it focuses on a real-property interest that gives use rights without ownership. It isn’t a loan secured by land (that would be a mortgage), nor is it merely temporary permission (a license), and it isn’t a building permit, which is a government authorization to construct.