What is an easement?
An easement is a right the property owner has given to another person or entity to utilize land that the person or entity does not own. Easements can be used for roads, water and sewer lines, drainage, and ponding, or be utilized by private utility companies for the right to bury cables or access utility lines.
Typically, easements are either included as part of the original plat of the property or have been established through negotiation with a property owner. The easement stays in effect until the easement is no longer needed and is legally vacated. If the property is bought and sold, the easement remains in effect.
Almost every property platted in the last 20 years has an easement of some form on it. The most common form of easement in a residential area is a drainage and utility easement. This easement is normally 5 to 20 feet wide and runs on all sides of a property.

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1. When is a building, plumbing, mechanical or electrical permit required?
2. Can a homeowner do work on their own home?
3. How does one get an electrical permit?
4. How do I obtain a Building Permit?
5. When is a building permit not required?
6. What methods of payment are accepted for permits?
7. What are the required inspections for a Building Permit?
8. Who must have a Residential Contractor’s License?
9. Can I build a shed or detached garage on my property?
10. Where do I find information about my property?
11. How do I locate my property line?
12. Why is my yard marked up with different colors of paint or flags?
13. What is a right of way?
14. What is an easement?
15. Can I build a fence on my property?
16. Can I dig on my own property?
17. What is considered a blighted property?
18. Who is responsible for removal of snow and ice from a public sidewalk?
19. What are some of the most common code violations?