Building a fence can significantly enhance your Houston property’s security, privacy, and curb appeal. However, before you start digging, it’s crucial to understand the location of any easements or utility areas on your land. Building a fence in these designated zones can lead to complications, fines, and even the forced removal of your fence.
What is an Easement or Utility Area?
An easement grants another party the right to use a portion of your property for a specific purpose. Common examples include utility companies needing access for power lines, water pipes, or drainage systems. Utility areas are similar, often referring to the land around underground or above-ground utilities.
Why Can’t I Just Build Anywhere?
Restricting construction in easements and utility areas ensures that these critical services can be maintained and accessed without obstruction. Think about it: if your fence blocks a utility company’s access to a buried gas line, repairing a leak becomes significantly more difficult and costly.
Before You Build: Research is Key
The first step is to identify any easements or utility areas on your property. Here’s how:
- Check Your Property Deed: This document should outline any existing easements.
- Contact Your Local Government: City or county planning departments can provide information on recorded easements and utility locations.
- Call Before You Dig: Dial 811 to have underground utilities marked before you begin any excavation. This free service can prevent costly and dangerous accidents.
Building Near or Within an Easement
If an easement exists, you might still be able to build a fence, but restrictions usually apply. Consider these points:
- Consult the Easement Agreement: This document specifies what activities are permitted within the easement.
- Setbacks: You may need to build your fence a certain distance away from the easement boundary.
- Gate Access: The easement holder might require a gate for access to their utilities.
- Material Restrictions: Some easements may restrict the type of fencing allowed (e.g., no solid fences that block visibility).
Violating easement restrictions can result in legal action, fines, and the forced removal of your fence. It’s always best to err on the side of caution and obtain necessary permits before starting construction.
Dealing with easements and utility areas can be tricky. Contact a professional fence contractor who is experienced in Houston’s regulations and permitting processes. They can help you navigate these challenges and ensure your fence is built safely and legally.
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