Legal Definitions - reserved land

Reserved land refers to an area of land that has been formally designated or set aside by a governmental authority for a specific public purpose, or where certain rights and interests have been explicitly retained by a previous owner or grantor during a property transfer. This designation typically restricts the land's use to its intended purpose, protecting it from other forms of development or ensuring its availability for a particular public or community benefit.

• Example 1: National Forest Designation
  The federal government identifies a vast tract of wilderness, rich in biodiversity and natural resources, and formally declares it a National Forest. This act makes it "reserved land," specifically set aside for conservation, timber management, recreation, and watershed protection. This designation prevents the land from being sold for private residential or commercial development, ensuring its long-term availability for public use and ecological health.

• Example 2: Utility Corridor Easement
  When a large parcel of land is subdivided for a new housing development, the original landowner might include a provision in the deeds for each new lot, reserving a narrow strip of land along the property lines for future public utility access. This "reserved land," often in the form of an easement, ensures that the local water company or electrical provider has the right to install and maintain pipes or power lines, even though the homeowners own the underlying property. Homeowners are typically restricted from building permanent structures on this reserved strip.

• Example 3: Military Training Area
  A national defense department officially designates a large, remote area as a military training ground. This land becomes "reserved land," exclusively set aside for military exercises, weapons testing, and troop training. This designation restricts public access and prevents any civilian development, ensuring the armed forces have a dedicated and secure space for their operational needs.