Question

What is the difference between a right of way and an easement.

Answer

A right of way is property owned by the Town of Dyer. This is the area along every street and alley within the town limits. Generally, a right of way is made up of the street or alley, green space and/or sidewalks. The right of way on a street that has sidewalks is usually to the outside edge of either sidewalk. Maintaining a right of way may be the responsibility of the adjoining property owner of the municipality. This responsiblity is set out by state lay or town ordinance. In all cases, it is the homeowners responsiblity to maintain the sidewalk. This includes snow removal. An easement is property owned by the property owner. Rights have be granted to the utility companies from the propery owner to build and maintain their utilities; whether its electric, gas, water, sewer, drainage, telephone, or cable TV. These easements must be kept clear or any permanent type of structure to allow the utility access to their infrastructure at any time. Trees, fences, sheds or other objects should not be installed without proper approval from the Town of Dyer.