Eminent domain is for public use – things like roads and schools – but all too often, cities team up with their developer friends to condemn perfectly fine homes and businesses for private development. This is an unconstitutional abuse of eminent domain and it must be stopped.

Join the fight to stop eminent domain abuse: Sign up at the right.

Download: Eminent Domain Abuse Survival Guide

Español: Manual de Supervivencia

Email us for a free “End Eminent Domain Abuse” stickers and posters.

Eminent domain abuse reached its peak when the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in Kelo v. City of New London that private property may be taken for private development based on the mere promise of increased tax revenue or jobs. IJ represented Susette Kelo and her neighbors. Their beloved neighborhood was not blighted and it certainly was not for sale.

But in the wake of that decision, 44 states reformed their laws to restrict the power to condemn property for private development. And since Kelo, the Institute for Justice has been instrumental in saving over 16,000 homes and businesses through grassroots activism. Check out some of our success stories.

If you are a victim of eminent domain abuse, know that you are not alone. We are here to help you organize your community and fight with you.

We have a wealth of resources that we can provide you with to effectively fight the condemnation of your home or business.

First, read our Eminent Domain Abuse Survival Guide. Activists nationwide have used this guide to successfully fight illegitimate land-grabs. Expanding on the most effective practical strategies to protect your property outside of the courtroom, the Survival Guide is designed to be a comprehensive roadmap for any grassroots battle against eminent domain for private development.

Then, check out our list of publications. These resources will equip you with the knowledge you need to challenge any argument you face made by the proponents of eminent domain abuse.

Finally, if you need posters, stickers or yard signs, e-mail [email protected] and we’ll mail you them for free.
Together, we can stop eminent domain abuse.

Read more about eminent domain abuse in Philadelphia.

Read more about eminent domain abuse in Santa Ana, California.