2025 Session Last amended: 2006 session

§ 117.055 — Petition and Notice

Plain-Language Summary

To start eminent domain, the government must file a petition in district court describing the land, the purpose of the taking, and the property owners. Owners must be served with notice at least 20 days before the hearing. The notice must tell owners they can challenge the taking and that they have 60 days to appeal a court order.

Practical Notes
If you receive a condemnation petition notice, you must appear at the hearing and state any objections to the taking, or appeal within 60 days. You have the right to request a map or plat of the land to be taken and to inspect the government’s plans. If you are not properly served with notice, the proceedings do not bind you.