A public easement is an easement that gives all people (the public) the right to use and enjoy a tract of property such as a street, sidewalk, park, or beach.
In Utah, a public easement is a type of right-of-way that allows the general public to use and access certain pieces of land for specific purposes such as walking, driving, or recreational activities. Public easements are often established on private property for sidewalks, streets, and utility lines, but they can also apply to public lands like parks and beaches. The creation of public easements can occur through explicit dedication by the property owner, implied dedication from long-term public use, or through governmental authority such as eminent domain. Once established, these easements are typically recorded and maintained by local government entities, and the underlying property owner cannot interfere with the public's right to use the easement area. Utah state statutes and local ordinances govern the establishment, use, and maintenance of public easements, ensuring that they serve the intended public interest without unduly burdening the property owners.