Understanding Utility Easements

With spring around the corner, many utility companies begin preparing for their seasonal projects. We often receive questions like: “Why didn’t the Village notify me about work planned for my neighborhood?” or “Why can’t the Village answer my questions about someone working in my yard or nearby?”

In many cases, the reason is that the work is being done within a utility easement. If a utility company is working within its easement and is not excavating or opening a street, alley, highway, sidewalk, or other public way, they are not required to notify the Village or obtain permission from the Village before performing the work.

So, what exactly is an easement—and how do you know if there is one on your property?

An easement is a legal right that allows utilities (such as electric, gas, water, sewer, or telecommunications providers) to access a portion of your property to install, maintain, repair, or replace infrastructure. It may seem concerning at first, but without easements, it would be nearly impossible to have utilities available to every home.

Many properties have easements along the rear or side lot lines, but the exact location can vary. You can usually find easements by:

• Reviewing your property survey, subdivision plat or other documents you would have received at closing.

• Reaching out to the utility company performing the work.

Understanding easements can help explain why utility crews may be working in your yard or neighborhood even when the Village has not been notified of the project.