Public Trust Doctrine
/ˈpʌblɪk trʌst ˈdɒktrɪn/
Definitions
- (n.) A legal principle that holds certain natural resources and public assets are preserved for public use and cannot be privately owned or alienated.
The public trust doctrine protects coastal waters and shorelines for public access and enjoyment.
- (n.) An underlying concept in environmental law mandating government stewardship of natural resources for present and future generations.
Environmental advocates often invoke the public trust doctrine to challenge harmful development projects.
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Commentary
This doctrine varies by jurisdiction but generally restricts private ownership of specified resources to ensure public benefit and access.
This glossary is for general informational and educational purposes only. Definitions are jurisdiction-agnostic but reflect terminology and concepts primarily drawn from English and American legal traditions. Nothing herein constitutes legal advice or creates a lawyer-client relationship. Users should consult qualified counsel for advice on specific matters or jurisdictions.