What characterizes an easement in gross?

An easement in gross is characterized by its attachment to a person or entity rather than a specific parcel of land. This means that the rights granted by the easement are personal and do not transfer with the property ownership. For example, if a utility company holds an easement in gross for the installation and maintenance of power lines, that easement is granted to the utility company itself, not tied to the property it crosses.

This differs from easements appurtenant, which are associated with a particular piece of property and benefit that property in its use. While some easements can indeed be created for public utility access, this is not a defining characteristic of all easements in gross. Additionally, easements do not always have an indefinite life; many can have specific terms or conditions attached. The key element remains that an easement in gross is personal to the holder rather than linked to land ownership.