Connecticut allows title by adverse possession only after open, visible, exclusive and uninterrupted possession for 15 years under Conn. Gen. Stat. Sec. 52-575; prescriptive easements require the same 15 years under Sec. 47-37. A squatter without that long possession is a trespasser removable through summary process or entry-and-detainer proceedings.
Under Conn. Gen. Stat. Sec. 52-575, title by adverse possession is 'accomplished by an open, visible, and exclusive possession uninterruptedly for a 15-year period.' Courts require possession that is hostile and under a claim of right, actual, open, notorious, exclusive and continuous for the full fifteen years. Conn. Gen. Stat. Sec. 47-37 applies the same 15-year rule to prescriptive easements (adverse use), barring rights unless the use 'has been continued uninterrupted for fifteen years.' A squatter who has not met these elements has no ownership claim and is a trespasser; owners remove them through summary process (Sec. 47a-23) or an entry-and-detainer action under Sec. 47a-43. Self-help removal is not permitted.
An owner may not use force to remove an occupant; self-help can trigger entry-and-detainer liability under Sec. 47a-43, including restoration of possession, double damages and attorney's fees. Removal must go through the courts.
Other ordinances people look up for this city. Green dot = verified primary-source excerpt.
Waterbury, CT
Waterbury prohibits storing abandoned, inoperable, or unregistered vehicles on public streets or visible on private property. Vehicles may be tagged and towe...
Waterbury, CT
Waterbury regulates electric vehicle charging infrastructure for residential and commercial properties. Building codes may require EV-ready parking in new co...
Waterbury, CT
Waterbury regulates overnight parking on public streets. Many areas restrict parking between certain hours or require permits for overnight street parking.
Waterbury, CT
Waterbury requires pool barriers meeting safety codes to prevent drowning. Fences must be at least 4 to 5 feet tall with self-closing, self-latching gates.
Waterbury, CT
Waterbury requires permits for retaining walls above a certain height, typically 4 feet. Engineering review may be required for taller walls.
Waterbury, CT
Waterbury restricts or prohibits intentional feeding of wildlife including deer, coyotes, and bears. Feeding wildlife creates public safety hazards and nuisa...
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