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Real property

utility easements

Public utility companies (gas, electricity, telephone, water, sewer, cable, etc.) often have easements to place utility transmission, distribution, or power lines on private property and access them for installation, repair, and maintenance—including removing or trimming trees that might interfere with transmission or distribution power lines, for example. These easements are known as utility easements or public utility easements.

In Illinois, public utility companies are granted utility easements, which are rights to use a portion of private property for certain utility infrastructure such as gas, electricity, telephone, water, sewer, and cable lines. These easements allow utility companies to install, repair, and maintain their infrastructure. Utility easements are typically established through agreements with property owners or by law, and they are recorded in the property's deed. Illinois law allows for the removal or trimming of trees by utility companies if they interfere with utility lines, as maintaining the safety and reliability of utility services is a priority. The Illinois Commerce Commission (ICC) regulates public utilities and enforces the state's utility-related laws and regulations. Property owners with utility easements on their land are generally restricted from building structures or planting trees that could obstruct the easement area.

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Real property

utility easements

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Real property

utility easements

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