What is a "deed restriction"?

A deed restriction refers specifically to a legal provision that imposes limitations on how a property can be used. These restrictions are placed by the property owner, usually in the deed, and remain attached to the property even if it is sold. They can cover various aspects of property usage, such as prohibiting certain types of constructions, or limiting the activities that can take place on the property.

For example, a deed restriction might prevent a homeowner from building a fence higher than a certain height or from using the property for commercial purposes. The primary purpose of deed restrictions is to maintain a certain aesthetic or character within a neighborhood or to preserve the value of the properties in a particular area by limiting uses that could detract from those values.

By understanding this concept, it's clear that the option indicating a legal provision that restricts property use is the most accurate representation of what a deed restriction entails, distinguishing it from other options which pertain to building regulations, public access, or property tax matters.