When you buy land or property, you likely assume that you can use that property however you like. However, even though you own it, you may not always be able to fully control what happens to it. In fact, there may be situations in which the government can take your property using a legal principle called eminent domain. This may feel shocking and unfair, but there are things you can do that will allow you to protect your interests if this ever happens to you. Eminent domain is a legal principle that allows the government to take privately owned property for an endeavor that is in the public in ..read more

When you purchase property, it is likely that you have an intended use in mind for the land. What some property buyers do not realize is that the actions of other property owners can affect their own interests. You may be surprised to learn that your neighbor can negatively impact you without ever stepping on your property. It will be beneficial to understand your property rights.  There are times when the actions of one property owner affect the adjacent property owner. Whether it is by physically crossing the boundary lines in some manner or simply by taking actions that negatively impa ..read more

For many property owners, it is surprising to learn that the federal government has the ability to determine how one can use certain types of property. There are typically strict rules regarding what one can and cannot do with a building or pieces of land due to zoning designations. For example, a property owner cannot build a storefront in the middle of an area designated as residential. You will benefit from understanding the zoning for your property and how this could limit your use.  In certain situations, it may be possible to get a zoning variance. This is an exception to local zoni ..read more

The development of land for personal or commercial purposes is a difficult process that requires consideration of legal, financial and even environmental factors. This is why land use planning is a critical component of development and property ownership, regardless of the intended purpose of the land. There are various land-use strategies. Understanding the differences between them is essential for any party involved with commercial or private property ownership.   Land use is a term used to describe the relationship between the land and everything around it, including how it’s used ..read more

Georgia zoning ordinances and decisions are meant to support the public’s welfare. If you’re a property owner who wants to add on to your home or erect an outbuilding or other structure, completion of your project must be in accordance with all relevant zoning regulations.  Perhaps you own a commercial property or are thinking of purchasing land for such use. It’s always best to make sure you understand zoning laws to avoid legal problems down the line.  How you intend to use land may influence zoning decisions  Land use and zoning are two issues that often intersect. If you are ..read more

Whether the property is under the control of an individual, organization or neighborhood association, the potential for environmental contaminants poses a great risk. These chemical contaminants can be introduced into the environment intentionally, through the use of pesticides, herbicides or fertilizer, or unintentionally, through accidental spills or damaged containment facilities. After sufficient contaminant exposure, it is necessary to investigate damage to the animal and plant populations. Investigators can accomplish this by tracking biomarkers. What are biomarkers? It can be challengin ..read more

One common reason for buying a home instead of renting it is to have the freedom to do what you want with your property. You can decorate and improve it inside and out as you see fit in accordance with any neighborhood covenants and local ordinances. Some homeowners, however, have little consideration for their neighbors, and it shows in the way they leave neighborhood children vulnerable to the attractive nuisances on their property.  An attractive nuisance is any feature, typically man-made, that draws the attention of someone who does not expect the feature to cause harm ..read more

If you heard about or even saw with your own eyes the Golden Ray cargo ship that capsized just south of Savannah almost two years ago, you probably know what a catastrophe it has been. While there were no lives lost, the impact the accident is having on the coastal waters of Georgia is not yet visible.   The shipwreck lay on a sandbar in the water month after month while bureaucrats debated about what to do. The ultimate decisions resulted in a massive oil spill. Authorities believe the cleanup from the spill might go well into the winter month ..read more

Unquestionably, advancements in science and chemistry have made life easier. Because of chemicals, you can eliminate pests in and around your home. Keeping your lawn green and lush is easier if you use certain chemical products. You can even do housekeeping chores that were back-breaking for past generations with little effort if you use the right solvents, disinfectants and cleaners.  However, along with the effectiveness of these and other chemicals comes the risk of toxic exposure. In fact, if you are conscious of that risk and reluctant to expose your family t ..read more

A gentle rain can bring a sense of calm during hot summer days. However, you may be one of many landowners for whom any amount of rain brings the threat of flooding. In recent years, Atlanta and other low-lying areas seem to flood more easily as developers recklessly destroy the natural barriers that at one time held the rainwaters back.   Uncontrolled rainwater carries pollutants and toxins into the streams and underground water systems. Stormwater runoff overfills the sewer systems in cities and counties across Georgia, often causing wid ..read more