Vermont law

Premises Liability Laws in Vermont.

Vermont premises-liability law retains the traditional invitee/licensee/trespasser distinctions but applies a general standard of reasonable care in most cases. The statute of limitations for personal-injury premises actions is three years (12 V.S.A. § 512). Vermont follows modified comparative fault (12 V.S.A. § 1036) — a plaintiff who is more than 50% at fault is barred from recovery. Vermont's harsh winters produce a substantial snow-and-ice premises caseload governed by the "natural accumulation" and "continuing storm" doctrines.

Last verified: 2026-04-20

State law

Statute of Limitations

3 years12 V.S.A. § 512

Vermont's 3-year limitation period for personal-injury actions, including premises-liability claims — running from the date of discovery of the injury.

State law

Fault & Liability Rules

Modified Comparative Fault (51% Bar)12 V.S.A. § 1036

A plaintiff recovers only if their share of fault is 50% or less. Damages are reduced in proportion to the plaintiff's fault. A plaintiff who is 51% or more at fault recovers nothing.

State law

Key Vermont Statutes

Personal-Injury Statute of Limitations12 V.S.A. § 512

Vermont's 3-year limitation period for personal-injury actions — running from the date of the injury.

Comparative Negligence12 V.S.A. § 1036

Vermont's modified comparative-negligence rule — a plaintiff more than 50% at fault is barred from recovery; otherwise, recovery is reduced in proportion to the plaintiff's fault.

Recreational-Use Immunity12 V.S.A. § 5793

Vermont's recreational-use statute — limiting landowner liability to persons entering unimproved land for recreation without fee, absent willful or wanton misconduct.

State law

Official Sources

Vermont Legislature — Title 12 (Court Procedure)

Not Legal Advice

This page summarizes publicly available statutes and rules for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice, and no attorney-client relationship is created by viewing this content. Laws change — always verify with the primary source or consult a licensed attorney in Vermont.

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Premises Liability Laws in Vermont.

Statute of Limitations

Fault & Liability Rules

Key Vermont Statutes

Official Sources

Not Legal Advice

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