Pennsylvania § 12801 - Exercise of eminent domain.
Full text of Pennsylvania Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 12801 — Exercise of eminent domain., with citation guidance and answers to common questions.
§ 12801. Exercise of eminent domain.
(a) General rule.--In addition to all other purposes for which a city may exercise the power of eminent domain as authorized by this part or by other laws of this Commonwealth and subject to the duty to provide just compensation, a city may acquire property by eminent domain, including entering upon, appropriating, taking, using and occupying private lands and property for any of the following public purposes:
(1) The laying out, opening, widening, extending, vacating, grading or changing the grades or lines of streets.
(2) The construction of bridges and the piers, abutments and approaches for bridges.
(3) The construction of slopes, embankments and storm water sewers, including storm water drains.
(4) The erection and extension of waterworks, wharves and docks, public buildings, public works, filtration plants, sewage systems, sewage treatment works, waste disposal plants, including disposal of garbage, ashes and other refuse materials and transfer facilities, gas plants, electric power and light plants, firehouses, hospitals, public auditoriums, memorial buildings, public transportation facilities, comfort stations, homeless shelters, waiting stations, communications facilities, drinking fountains, libraries and other public buildings and public works.
(5) The establishing of recreation places.
(6) The changing of watercourses.
(7) The acquisition of lands, easements and property for use of the Pennsylvania National Guard in accordance with sections 144A13 (relating to eminent domain for National Guard purposes) and 144A14 (relating to land for armory purposes).
(b) Eminent domain proceedings.--Eminent domain proceedings shall be subject to and conform with the provisions of 26 Pa.C.S. (relating to eminent domain).
Cross References. Section 12801 is referred to in section 12960 of this title.
Source: official Pennsylvania text · Last verified 2026-08-27
Frequently Asked Questions About Pennsylvania § 12801
What does Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 12801 cover?
Section 12801 ("Exercise of eminent domain.") is part of the Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes, the codified statutory law of Pennsylvania. It sets out the legal rule or procedure described in the text above. Statutes are amended regularly, so always verify against the official source.
How do I cite Pennsylvania § 12801?
A common citation format is "Pennsylvania Consolidated Statutes § 12801" (Pennsylvania). Legal writing may require the code abbreviation, section number, and year or edition. Match the style required by your court, professor, or publisher.
Is this the official text of Pennsylvania law?
No. This page is for research and education and may not include the most recent amendments. For official current law, check the Pennsylvania official source linked on this page or consult a licensed Pennsylvania attorney.
How does Pennsylvania § 12801 apply to my situation?
Statutes are interpreted in context, and application depends on your specific facts. Only a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania can advise on how this section applies to you. Contact your state or local bar association for a referral.
Sources & Verification
Not legal advice. Verify against the official source and consult a licensed attorney in Pennsylvania.