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An easement in gross is a personal right granted to a person or entity to use someone else’s land without being attached to any particular parcel of land. In this case, the city has the right to enter the property to maintain utilities, regardless of ownership changes of the property. Easements in gross are commonly granted to utility companies, municipalities, or railroads. This contrasts with an appurtenant easement, which benefits another parcel of land, and a prescriptive easement, which arises from continuous, open, and hostile use over a statutory period. An easement by necessity occurs when access to land is otherwise impossible. Understanding these distinctions is critical for California real estate practice, as easements affect property rights, value, and disclosure obligations. Knowledge of land use regulations and encumbrances is essential for both brokers and agents to advise clients accurately, ensure legal compliance, and avoid potential liability.