What is the public Right of Way and the Public Utility Easement?

The public right-of-way is a portion of property legally dedicated to the city for public infrastructure, such as roadways, storm sewers, sidewalks and streetlights. The state also allows utility providers to use the public right of way for their infrastructure.

Utility easements are areas of a property dedicated for utility companies to deliver services like electricity, gas, water, sanitary sewer, telephone, internet and cable. The land belongs to the homeowner, but utilities can access easements to perform routine maintenance, construct improvement projects and repair utility lines during emergencies.

Utility companies try to limit damage to encroaching items during construction, but they are not required to replace, pay damages, or reinstall items that impede construction. Encroachment into an easement or right of way, even if approved, is at the property owner’s sole risk.

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1. WaterOne made repairs on my property and disturbed my property (landscaping, pavement, etc.) Will WaterOne repair it?
2. Who will perform the restoration?
3. I think my irrigation system was damaged by the repairs, or I have irrigation hoses sticking out of the ground. Will that be repaired?
4. What timeline can I expect for repairs?
5. How does the process typically work?
6. The area around my meter pit is settling, causing a lowered spot in my yard. What is this and how do I get it fixed?
7. Is it possible that a main break will happen again?
8. What is the public Right of Way and the Public Utility Easement?