What is the difference between a public purpose and a public use?

The difference between public purpose and public use can be an important concept to understand when looking at eminent domain law in South Carolina. Public purpose usually refers to projects the government undertakes for the greater good of the community, such as construction of roads or public buildings. These projects are usually characterized by their lack of benefit to any particular individual or group of individuals and the fact that they increase the quality of life for the wider community. Public use is slightly different in that it usually refers to projects that benefit a particular individual or group, such as building a dam for a private mining company or providing utilities to a residential neighborhood. These projects are still considered public use because they serve the overall public interest by providing a necessary service or improving the quality of life. Both public purpose and public use are usually necessary in order to justify the use of eminent domain. Under South Carolina law, the government must demonstrate that the taking of private property is necessary for the greater public good and will result in an overall benefit to the public. As such, the government must provide evidence that the project is a public purpose before it can move forward with the taking.

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What is the difference between a public purpose and a public use?

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