Consult With a Specialized
Expropriation Lawyer

As defined in the Expropriations Act, expropriation is the taking of land by the government in the exercise of its statutory power, without the consent of the property owner. In Ontario, a variety of public entities, including the provincial government and all municipalities, have the power to expropriate land. 

Historically, all land in Canada belonged to the Crown. Large sections of that land were subsequently sold to private citizens or corporations for use. 
Expropriation occurs when the government determines that it requires some or all of that land back for public use. Examples of public use include construction, creation, or expansion of:

• Highways;
• Other transportation systems (i.e. light rail, subway, railroad tracks, etc.);
• Public utility work (i.e. water, hydro, etc.);
• Airports;
• Parks; and/or
• Municipal boundaries.