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Connecticut · TitleConnecticut adverse possession: the fifteen-year period and the recorded notice that interrupts it

Connecticut sets the adverse possession clock in its statute of limitations on entry. No person may make entry into land except within fifteen years after the right or title first descends or accrues, or within fifteen years after being ousted from possession; an owner who doesn't enter within that time, and the owner's heirs, are barred from entering afterwards (C.G.S. §52-575(a)). The owner can stop the clock: a written notice to the person in possession, stating the intent to dispute that person's right of possession and to prevent the acquisition of the right, served and recorded as provided in sections 47-39 and 47-40, is treated as an interruption of the use and possession – provided an action is commenced within one year after the notice is recorded (§52-575(a)).

What the statutes set

  1. Fifteen years (§52-575(a))

    Entry or action within fifteen years after the right accrues or the owner is ousted.

  2. Barred afterwards (§52-575(a))

    An owner who doesn't enter in time, and the owner's heirs, can't enter later.

  3. Notice interrupts (§52-575(a))

    A written notice disputing possession, served and recorded under §§47-39 and 47-40.

  4. One-year follow-up (§52-575(a))

    The notice works only if an action starts within one year after recording.

What the TC checks when possession and the deed don't match

  • Flag any survey showing a fence, driveway or structure crossing the boundary.
  • Ask the title company whether a notice disputing possession has been recorded against the parcel.
  • Route the question to the parties' attorneys before the title commitment deadline.

Questions about Connecticut adverse possession

How long is adverse possession in Connecticut?

Fifteen years: an owner must enter within fifteen years after being ousted from possession or is barred from entering afterwards (C.G.S. §52-575(a)).

How can a Connecticut owner stop adverse possession?

By serving and recording a written notice disputing the possessor's right under §§47-39 and 47-40 and starting an action within one year after recording it (C.G.S. §52-575(a)).

Related guides

Track the survey review and the title objection deadline as tasks on the deal in ClosingCode.

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Source: C.G.S. §52-575 (cga.ct.gov), read October 31, 2026.

General information, not legal advice. ClosingCode is software; it is not a law firm or brokerage. This guide is not a substitute for the advice or services of an attorney.