What is fee simple-surface Estate Only?

A fee simple-surface estate only is a type of property ownership where the owner holds the rights to the surface land but not the subsurface rights, such as minerals or oil. This arrangement allows the landowner to use and develop the surface while the subsurface rights can be owned or leased separately by another party. It is commonly used in real estate transactions where mineral rights are separated from surface rights. This type of ownership can impact land use and value significantly.