What is an easement in gross?

An easement in gross is defined as a personal right that allows an individual to use the land of another for a specific purpose, which is not related to the ownership of the land itself. This type of easement does not benefit a particular parcel of land; rather, it benefits a person or entity. Common examples include utility companies having the right to install and maintain power lines across private property.

The key characteristic of an easement in gross is that it is a personal right, which may not be transferred or assigned to another party like property rights can be. This distinguishes it from other forms of easements that typically involve the relationship between two parcels of land, where one parcel benefits from the easement over another.

Understanding this concept helps clarify the nature of property rights and land use agreements, making it essential for anyone studying real estate law or property management.