What does the term 'condemnation' refer to in land surveying?

The term 'condemnation' in land surveying refers specifically to the process of taking private property for public use while ensuring that the property owner receives fair compensation. This concept is rooted in the government’s power of eminent domain, which allows for the acquisition of private land to be used for public purposes, such as infrastructure projects, schools, or parks. The requirement for fair compensation is a legal safeguard to protect property owners, ensuring they are reimbursed for the loss of their property at its market value.

Understanding this definition is critical for land surveyors as they may be involved in projects where condemnation is applicable, and they would need to assess the boundaries and features of the land being taken. The other choices do not accurately encompass this legal principle: they either misrepresent the nature of the action (like suggesting no compensation or implying negotiation without clear compensation) or incorrectly describe the directions of ownership transfer in a way that falls outside of condemnation’s definition.