Lucas v. South Carolina Coastal Council [1992]

505 U.S. 1003 (1992) · Supreme Court of the United States · United States

property lawproperty lawenvironmental law

Issue

When does a regulation become a categorical taking?

Held

A regulation denying all economically beneficial use generally requires compensation.

Exam use

Review the ratio and reasoning before applying this case in problem questions.

Summary

Key regulatory takings decision.

Facts

A coastal regulation barred residential construction on beachfront lots.

Issue

When does a regulation become a categorical taking?

Held

A regulation denying all economically beneficial use generally requires compensation.

Ratio Decidendi

Total economic wipeouts are categorical takings subject to narrow exceptions.

Reasoning

Total deprivation is functionally equivalent to a physical appropriation unless background principles already limited use.

Essay-Ready Explanation Generator

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Reference to Lucas v. South Carolina Coastal Council (505 U.S. 1003 (1992)) strengthens a property law answer because the case reflects the principle that Total economic wipeouts are categorical takings subject to narrow exceptions. Applied to a problem question, the case should be used after identifying the issue as When does a regulation become a categorical taking? The stronger essay move is to connect the material facts to the court's holding, then explain whether the present facts support the same conclusion or justify distinguishing the authority.

Significance

Key regulatory takings decision.

Related Cases

No related cases listed.

Exam Tips

Review the ratio and reasoning before applying this case in problem questions.

Revision Checklist

  • Name the issue before discussing facts so the marker sees the legal question immediately.
  • State the holding in one sentence, then use the ratio to explain why the court reached that result.
  • Use the citation and jurisdiction to show why this authority matters for the problem you are answering.
  • Pair this case with one supporting or contrasting authority if the question tests limits, policy, or exceptions.

Sources