Adverse Possession in District of Columbia
State-specific overview · Property & Real Estate
Adverse possession requires 15 years of open, continuous occupation with intent to claim ownership.
How District of Columbia treats Adverse Possession
The District of Columbia recognizes adverse possession under a 15-year statutory period, which is longer than many states. The claimant must occupy the property openly and notoriously, continuously without permission, and with the intent to claim it as their own. The occupation must be actual and exclusive, meaning the adverse possessor treats the land as their own and excludes the true owner from use. Payment of property taxes is not required in D.C., though it strengthens a claim if present.
The general definition of Adverse Possession
Gaining legal ownership of land by occupying it openly and continuously for a set period.
If someone uses another person's land openly, without permission, and continuously for many years (typically 7–21 years depending on the state), they may eventually become the legal owner. The original owner must not have stopped them during that time. This doctrine rewards people who improve and maintain land while punishing owners who abandon or ignore their property.
Read the full Adverse Possession entry →This page is a plain-English reference and is not legal advice. State laws change frequently. For specific situations consult a licensed attorney in District of Columbia.