Can You Plant Trees on a Utility Easement in Ohio?

Living in Ohio, you may be wondering if you can plant trees on a utility easement. Utility easements serve as a legal right-of-way allowing utility companies to access and maintain utility lines and equipment that runs through your property. This article will discuss whether it is permissible to plant trees on a utility easement in Ohio.

Understanding Utility Easements in Ohio

Utility easements are essential as they allow utility companies to access utility lines and equipment, ensuring that you have access to essential services. Understanding an easement on your property is essential as it dictates what activities can take place on that piece of land.

In Ohio, utility companies have the right to use and maintain the electric, gas, and water lines and equipment running through your property without your permission. Property owners do not have to bear the cost of maintaining utility lines on their property, which allows for seamless utility access.

Planting Trees on a Utility Easement in Ohio

Planting trees on a utility easement can prove to be a contentious issue. Trees pose a tremendous threat to utility lines and equipment, which can cause electricity outages, water leaks, and gas shortages. Roots of large trees can damage underground pipes, leading to costly repairs and replacements of utility lines. As such, planting trees on a utility easement without prior consent from the utility company or the relevant governing authority is not permissible.

Utility companies have the right to remove trees that grow too close to the utility lines or equipment, even if they are planted within your property. The removal may be necessary, and you will not receive compensation as the company is fulfilling its obligations under the easement.

Obtaining Consent for Tree Planting

Ohio enjoys both urban and suburban greening initiatives, and tree planting is encouraged. However, before planting any trees on your property, you must consult with your municipality or utility company to determine the appropriate locations to plant them. If the area identified is within a utility easement, you must obtain consent to plant from the utility company or the relevant governing authority.

The governing authority may grant permission to plant trees on a utility easement, and this may be subject to some conditions to ensure that the trees do not interfere with the utility lines and equipment. If you plant trees on a utility easement without prior consent, the governing authority may remove them without your consent and may also fine you for violating any rules and regulations.

Conclusion

Utility easements allow utility companies to access and maintain utility lines and equipment that run through your property without your permission. Planting trees on a utility easement is not permissible without prior consent from the utility company or the relevant governing authority. Ohio property owners must work with their municipality or utility company to identify appropriate locations to plant trees that do not interfere with the utility lines and equipment to promote green initiatives safely.