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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 Rhode Island, 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 part of the property for the purpose of laying transmission or distribution lines and related equipment. The easements are often established through agreements with property owners or by law, and they are recorded in the property's deed. Utility companies also have the right to remove or trim trees that may interfere with the utility lines, as long as they comply with the terms of the easement and applicable state regulations. Rhode Island law requires utility companies to exercise care when performing such activities to minimize damage to the property and to notify property owners when maintenance that affects their property is planned.

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Real property

utility easements

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Real property

utility easements

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