Can I object if the government wants to expropriate my property?

What the Law Says

The federal Expropriation Act gives property owners clear rights when the Crown intends to take their land. Two key sections protect your ability to respond and be heard.

The government cannot expropriate your property without first giving you formal notice. Under section 5, the Crown must register a notice of intention to expropriate and serve it directly on all property owners.

Once you receive that notice, you have a strict 30-day window to file an objection. Section 10 guarantees this right — and says that if you do object in time, a public hearing must be held to consider your concerns before the expropriation can proceed.

This process ensures transparency and gives you a meaningful opportunity to challenge the taking — whether on grounds like necessity, fairness of compensation, or procedural flaws.

Statutory Text

Crown must register a notice of intention to expropriate and serve it on owners of the property.

— Expropriation Act, s. 5 — Notice of intention

Statutory Text

Owner served with notice may file an objection within 30 days, leading to a public hearing.

— Expropriation Act, s. 10 — Right to object

What to Do

Sources