What is meant by eminent domain?

Eminent domain refers to the power that governments possess to take private property for public use, provided that they offer just compensation to the property owner. This legal principle is grounded in the idea that the government can acquire land for purposes beneficial to the public, such as constructing roads, schools, or parks.

The process requires that the government demonstrates a compelling public interest in the property it seeks to acquire, ensuring that the rights of private property owners are respected by compensating them fairly for the loss of their property. This concept is essential in balancing the need for societal development and infrastructure with the rights of individuals who own property.

In contrast, the other options refer to different aspects of property and land use but do not encapsulate the essence of eminent domain. For example, the right of a property owner to sell or lease their land emphasizes individual ownership rights rather than the government's power to acquire property. Similarly, a system of land ownership limited to specific types of individuals does not pertain to eminent domain, and the process for approving new construction projects is unrelated to the government's power to take private property for public use. Understanding eminent domain is crucial for grasping governmental authority in urban planning and development.