Legal Definitions - ad coelum et ad inferos

Definition: Ad coelum et ad inferos is a Latin legal term that means "up to the sky and down to the center of the earth." It refers to the concept that the ownership of land extends vertically from the surface of the earth to the highest point in the sky and to the depths of the earth.

Example: If a property owner builds a tall structure on their land, they have the right to control the airspace above it up to the highest point in the sky. Similarly, they have the right to control any resources found beneath the surface of their land, such as oil or minerals.

Explanation: Ad coelum et ad inferos is a legal principle that establishes the extent of a property owner's rights over their land. It means that they have control over everything above and below the surface of their property, including the airspace and any resources found beneath the ground. This principle is important in property law and can have implications for issues such as zoning regulations and mineral rights.