Which term refers to the right of property owners to specify restrictions on use?

The term referring to the right of property owners to specify restrictions on use is known as private restrictions. These are conditions or limitations placed on the use of real estate by the property owner. Property owners can impose these restrictions during the development or sale of the property, often outlined in a deed or governed by local regulations. Private restrictions can dictate things such as the type of structures allowed, the use of the property (e.g., residential vs. commercial), and aesthetic guidelines, ensuring that the property aligns with the owner's vision or community standards.

In contrast, encroachment typically involves a physical intrusion onto a property boundary, which does not relate to the establishment of restrictions. Covenants can also be closely related; however, they often refer to broader agreements or promises that might include things like maintenance obligations or commitments to adhere to community standards, rather than just the specific use restrictions a property owner might impose. Easements grant specific rights of use over another person's land but do not imply the right to restrict how the property can be used overall, thus differentiating them from the concept of private restrictions.