The act of a governmental entity exercising its authority of EminentDomain. upon successful condemnation, the ownership of the property is effectively transfered to the governmental entity in exchange for "just compensation", which is commonly just the market value of the property.

Condemnation can also refer to property which is being cited for violations on the grounds of health/safety/zoning hazards or violations. In this instance, condemned property is not transfered to the government, but rather the owner is required to act to resolve the issue.