A right of way is an easement that allows a person to travel through another person’s property to get to certain location. For example, a person might travel through a neighbor’s land to reach a public road or highway. A right of way can be offered to one person, several people, or the public.
In Iowa, a right of way is a type of easement that grants the holder the right to travel over another person's property for a specific purpose, such as accessing a public road or highway. This right can be established through an agreement between property owners, implied by long-term use, or through necessity if it is the only access to a property. Iowa law recognizes both public and private rights of way. Public rights of way are typically held by governmental entities for roads, sidewalks, and utilities, while private rights of way are for the benefit of specific individuals or groups. The creation, modification, and termination of easements, including rights of way, can involve formal legal processes and may be recorded in property deeds or other legal documents to ensure notice to all parties involved. Disputes over rights of way may be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or, if necessary, litigation, with the assistance of an attorney.