Adverse Possession in Georgia
State-specific overview · Property & Real Estate
Georgia requires 20 years of continuous adverse possession under its statutory framework.
How Georgia treats Adverse Possession
Georgia law generally requires 20 years of continuous, open, notorious, exclusive, and hostile possession to establish adverse possession. The occupation period is measured from the date the adverse possessor first takes possession with the required intent. Georgia courts apply these elements consistently and do not recognize a shortened period based on tax payment alone.
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 Georgia.