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HB 2477

Property under common ownership; creation of easements.

2025 Regular Session Introduced by J.R. Henson

Virginia bill allowing shared property owners to create easements without unanimous consent was vetoed by Governor and veto sustained by House in April 2025.

House sustained Governor's veto
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Bill Summary · HB 2477

Legislative bill overview

HB 2477 allows property owners under common ownership (such as condominium or homeowners association communities) to create easements across shared property without requiring unanimous consent from all owners. Previously, Virginia law required full consent; this bill reduces the threshold for easement creation on commonly-owned land.

Why is this important

This affects millions of Virginians living in planned communities and condominiums by changing how utility access, drainage, or other easements can be established. It impacts property rights, community governance, and the ability of associations or individual owners to modify land use—potentially making infrastructure improvements easier or creating disputes among co-owners.

Potential points of contention

  • Property rights vs. collective governance: Reduces individual owner veto power over easements affecting their property interests, raising concerns about minority protections
  • Association authority scope: Unclear whether the bill empowers HOAs to unilaterally create easements or requires a specific vote threshold, creating implementation questions
  • Utility company leverage: May make it easier for utilities to secure easement rights on residential property without needing widespread owner agreement, potentially benefiting development over homeowner preferences

Compiled from official sources — confirm details with the bill’s official record.

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