What is a drainage easement?

A drainage easement is a legal agreement that allows a property owner to grant permission to another entity, such as a municipality or utility company, to use a portion of their property for drainage purposes.

These easements are typically established to ensure proper drainage and prevent flooding on neighboring properties. They can also protect the environment by directing stormwater runoff to designated areas, such as retention ponds or drainage ditches.

A drainage easement may restrict the property owner from building structures or planting trees in the designated area, as doing so could impede drainage flow. Property owners typically cannot alter or modify the easement without permission from the entity granted access to the easement area.

It is important for property owners to be aware of any existing drainage easements on their property, as they can impact future development plans and property values. Violating the terms of a drainage easement could result in legal consequences.