What is allodial?

Allodial is a term used to describe a type of land ownership where the owner holds outright ownership of the land, without any obligations or dues to any other party, including the government. This is in contrast to feudal land ownership where the land is subject to various obligations and duties to a superior lord or the state.

Allodial land ownership was common in many pre-colonial societies, especially among indigenous peoples, where land was considered a communal resource. In modern times, however, allodial ownership is rare and is usually restricted to certain rights or easements on private property and governmental land grants.

Allodial ownership is not recognized in many legal systems and countries, and even where it is recognized, it may be subject to limitations and restrictions. In the United States, for example, the concept of allodial land ownership is recognized only in a few states, such as Nevada, and even then only in limited circumstances.