Coastal Services Center

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Definition of the Public Trust Doctrine (2 of 3)

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The Solution: the Public Trust Doctrine

The Public Trust Doctrine is a common-law doctrine of property law, customized by each state, which establishes public rights in navigable waters and on their shores.

The doctrine is premised on the fact that such waters and shores have been used as common areas for food, travel, and commerce since time immemorial.

In some states, public rights may also be exercised on private lands. The legal interest of the public is determined by balancing public and private rights and interests.