Property Interests in Resettled Communities

Abstract

During the post-Confederation era in Newfoundland and Labrador, the provincial government incentivized movement from small, isolated communities to larger centres. However, the provincial government’s program largely disregarded the property interest of occupants in their former communities. As such, some communities today are experiencing a renaissance as seasonal cabin property; however, the questions remain as to what interests may still exist, and what ownership rights may today be legally exercised in such resettled communities. This article will examine the history of the resettlement program, and the impact that resettlement has had on the property interests that exist and that may be acquired in resettled areas.