Magánút

Magánút is a road that is not part of the public road network and is owned and maintained by private individuals or private entities. Such roads are typically built to provide access to private properties, farms, or business facilities and may run through private land or along parcel boundaries. Access for other users is not automatic; traversing a magánút generally requires the owner's permission or a legally established easement or usage right.

Ownership and maintenance are the responsibility of the private owners or the entity that manages the road. In practice, magánut may be maintained by a private association (magánút-kezelő egyesület) or directly by the owners. Costs for winter service, resurfacing, and repairs are borne by the owners or the association, unless there is a formal agreement.

For users, magánút are subject to traffic rules, but access can be restricted. The road may have posted restrictions on weight, speed, or vehicle type. In rural areas, magánút often serve adjacent plots and may be called zártkerti utak; they may be opened to public use only by local authorities or by mutual agreement.

If a magánút is needed for public services, emergencies, or if it serves a public function, authorities may regulate or require maintenance, and disputes may be resolved through civil or administrative processes. Over time, a magánút can be converted into a public road through formal procedures such as dedication by owners or acquisition by a municipality.

This article provides a general overview; specific rights and obligations depend on national law and local agreements.