What are easements?

Easements are defined as legal rights to use someone else's land for a specific purpose, which is precisely why this choice is the correct answer. An easement grants one party the ability to access or utilize another party's property, typically for reasons such as right-of-way, public utilities, or drainage. This arrangement does not transfer ownership of the land but allows for use in a manner that has been mutually agreed upon or legally established.

Easements can serve various functions, such as allowing pedestrians to walk across a private drive or permitting utility companies to install power lines on private property. They are essential in property law and can significantly affect property value and usability.

In contrast, the other options refer to different legal concepts and do not accurately describe easements. For instance, legal agreements to lease land focus on rental agreements rather than rights of use without ownership transfer. Property rights that allow for financial compensation describe ownership rights, while restrictions placed on property by local zoning laws pertain to governmental regulation rather than private usage agreements. Understanding easements helps in navigating property rights, responsibilities, and development plans.