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 Massachusetts, 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 in various ways, including by deed (express grant), by implication, by necessity, or by prescription (continuous use over a period of at least 20 years). The right of way can be granted to an individual, a group of people, or the public, and it must be used in a manner consistent with the terms under which it was granted. The owner of the land over which the right of way passes cannot obstruct it or interfere with its reasonable use. Disputes over rights of way are not uncommon and can be resolved through negotiation, mediation, or, if necessary, litigation. It is important for both the grantor and the grantee to understand the terms and limitations of the right of way to avoid conflicts.