What is a negative easement?

A negative easement is a legal right that allows a property owner to restrict or limit certain uses of an adjacent property by another party. Specifically, it prevents the landowner from performing activities that would otherwise be permissible, thus protecting the rights and interests of the holder of the easement. For example, a common type of negative easement is one that prevents a neighbor from building structures that would obstruct a scenic view.

In this context, the choice that defines a negative easement correctly reflects its purpose of imposing restrictions on what can be done with property, rather than allowing activities like crossing land or using it temporarily. This specificity of the negative easement being about restriction distinguishes it from other types of easements, which might focus on granting rights or responsibilities regarding property maintenance.