What is a blight designation?

A blight designation is a tool used by New Hampshire government to exercise its right of eminent domain. Generally, the state has the power to take private property for public use, such as for roads or public buildings. However, under New Hampshire law, government entities also have the authority to designate certain private property as "blighted," which means it is in a state of disrepair or is detrimental to public safety. This designation allows the state to acquire the property, often at a lower price, in order to redevelop it for the public benefit. In order to designate a property as blighted, the state must first investigate the condition of the property and determine that it is a public nuisance or hazard. This assessment typically involves obtaining an appraisal of the property, as well as inspecting it for signs of neglect or disrepair. If the state finds that the property meets the criteria for a blight designation, then it can make a formal declaration and commence the eminent domain process. Under New Hampshire law, the owner of a blighted property is entitled to compensation for the acquisition, even if it is significantly lower than the value of the property. However, the owner is not allowed to challenge the blight designation in court and must accept the amount offered for the property. This law ensures that the state can acquire blighted properties for the benefit of the public while still providing some compensation for the original owner.

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What is a blight designation?

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