What is the typical duration of continuous use required for prescriptive easements in Georgia?

In Georgia, the typical duration of continuous use required for prescriptive easements is indeed 20 years. This rule is rooted in property law principles that aim to balance the rights of landowners with the needs of users who may rely on the use of someone else's land for a significant period of time. Continuous use for 20 years demonstrates a long-term reliance on the easement, making it more likely that the use has become established and accepted.

This provision supports the idea that long-standing use should be recognized legally, especially when the landowner has not acted against such use during that span, thereby allowing the user to continue benefiting from the easement rights. This 20-year period is a clear differentiation from shorter time frames used in other jurisdictions, establishing a definitive threshold before a prescriptive easement may be claimed. Understanding this timeframe is essential for anyone dealing with real property issues in Georgia, whether they're managing properties, advising clients, or evaluating easement rights.