Who We Are

The International Right of Way Association is a professional member organization comprised of global infrastructure real estate practitioners. Since its inception as a not-for-profit association in 1934, IRWA has served professionals who acquire, manage and transfer the land rights needed for building and maintaining energy and transportation infrastructure.

Recognized for their high ethical standards, commitment to integrity and professional excellence, IRWA’s nearly 10,000 members hail from over 15 countries around the world. They are united by their profession and their commitment to pursuing training and professional development through courses, chapter meetings, seminars and the annual education conference.


Our Purpose
We improve people's quality of life through infrastructure development.


Our Mission
We empower professionals by elevating ethics, learning, and a standard of excellence within the global infrastructure real estate community.


What We Do

Considered the unsurpassed source of right of way educational programs and professional services worldwide, IRWA provides infrastructure real estate education and credentialing opportunities to differentiate our members in the professional marketplace. Our industry-specific education and advanced curriculum allows for professional credentialing with a focus on one of our four industries, including Electric & Utilities, Public Agencies, Oil & Gas Pipeline, and Transportation. We also offer certification opportunities in Appraisal, Asset Management, Negotiation and Acquisition, Relocation Assistance, and the Uniform Act. IRWA works to create industry-wide recognition of our designations and certifications, and to elevate the role of right of way professionals by strengthening their industry relevance.


Who We Serve

IRWA is a volunteer-driven organization comprised of multi-disciplined professionals employed by private industry and government agencies as:


Where We Are

IRWA Chapter 2 serves the San Francisco Bay Area, while the IRWA Headquarters is in Los Angeles, California. IRWA has over 70 local chapters across the world, including the United States, Canada, Australia, Mexico, Nigeria, South Africa and Saudi Arabia. The Association has additional at-large members in China, Germany, Georgia, Japan, Namibia, Thailand, The Netherlands, Uganda, the United Arab Emirates and the United Kingdom.

  • Acquisition Agents
  • Project Managers
  • Appraisers
  • Real Estate Attorneys
  • Asset Managers
  • Relocation Assistance Agents
  • Engineers
  • Surveyors
  • Environmental Specialists
  • Title Experts
  • Property Disposition
  • Utility Managers
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