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 Tennessee, a public easement is a type of right-of-way granted to the public to use and enjoy certain properties, such as streets, sidewalks, parks, or beaches. These easements are typically established through dedication by a property owner or through governmental authority. Once established, they are recorded and maintained by local government entities. Public easements are designed to ensure that members of the community have access to public spaces and thoroughfares. They are governed by state statutes, local ordinances, and case law. The maintenance and regulation of public easements, including the enforcement of any restrictions and the resolution of disputes, are typically handled by municipal or county governments. It is important to note that while the public has the right to use these easements, the underlying property may still be privately owned, and the property owner retains certain rights subject to the easement.