What is a key characteristic of public easements?

A key characteristic of public easements is that they permit government use of private property. Public easements are typically established for the benefit of the public and allow government entities to access or utilize portions of private land for various purposes, such as infrastructure development, maintenance, or public right-of-way activities. This could include access for roads, utilities, or public transit, ensuring that the needs of the community are met while balancing private property rights.

In contrast, the other options do not accurately represent the nature of public easements. For instance, public easements are not limited to agricultural use, and they are not confined to the needs or interests of private individuals. Moreover, the idea that they are enforceable only during business hours is not related to how easements function, as public easements can be utilized at all times as necessary for public benefit. Understanding this characteristic helps in comprehending the balance between property rights and public interest.