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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 Massachusetts, public utility companies such as those providing gas, electricity, telephone, water, sewer, and cable services are typically granted utility easements to install, repair, and maintain their infrastructure on private property. These easements allow the utility companies legal access to a specific portion of the property for the purpose of laying transmission or distribution lines and related equipment. Utility easements are often established through agreements with property owners or by law, and are recorded in the property's deed. When necessary, utility companies are also permitted to remove or trim trees that could interfere with the utility lines, as long as they comply with the terms of the easement and applicable regulations. Massachusetts law requires utility companies to follow certain procedures when exercising their rights under a utility easement, including providing notice to property owners and minimizing damage to the property.

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Real property

utility easements

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Real property

utility easements

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