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 Missouri, a public easement is a type of right-of-way that allows the general public to use and access certain pieces of property, which can include streets, sidewalks, parks, or beaches. These easements are typically created by a dedication of property to the public by the property owner, through explicit reservation in a deed, or by a government entity exercising its power of eminent domain for public use. Public easements are maintained by public authorities and are intended to serve the general welfare and convenience of the community. The regulations governing public easements in Missouri are designed to ensure that they are used appropriately and that the rights of both the public and the property owner are respected. Any obstruction or unauthorized use of a public easement can be subject to legal action by the state or local government to restore its intended use.