An easem*nt is a legal right to use someone else’s land forpublic orprivate purposes. While many easem*nt agreementsarewritten into the property records,that is not always the case. Some easem*nts can be obtained through other means.
Texas Utility Code, Chapter 181
State law governing the powers and duties of utility companies including access to easem*nts and rights-of-way.
Texas Transportation Code, Chapter 313
State law allowing municipalities to charge abutting landowners the cost for street improvements and assessments. It also provides a procedure for notifying the owner of the expected cost.
Easem*ntsare also regulated by Texas municipalities. Be sure to also check your local code of ordinances to see if any additional laws exist. See ourMunicipal Laws and Ordinancespage for assistance locating your local laws.
Note: The list of laws we provide on this page is not exhaustiveas there are numerous stateand local laws related toeasem*nts. The list we have created here are lawsthat we feelcitizens may run into more frequently in their daily lives. Please contact the library if you need help locating any additional laws on easem*nts.
The basics on easem*nts from legal self-help publisher Nolo.
A fact sheet created by the Texas Agrilife Extension on the two categories of easem*nts: express and implied.
This publication from the Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University discusses public easem*nts as well as private easem*nts in Texas.
An article from a private law firm that discusses Texas easem*nt law in great detail, citing to both state law and case law.
How Can I Access Landlocked Property in Texas?
Information from the Texas A&M Agri-Life Extension on issues involving access to landlocked property.
FAQs About Easem*nts on One's Property
Answers from legal self-help publisher Nolo on easem*nt issues that may arise between neighbors.
Who Is Required to Maintain an Easem*nt?
Information from the Texas A&M Agri-Life Extension on how to determine who maintains an easem*nt.
An article from the Texas Municipal League discussing when it is the city's or the landowner's responsibility to maintain an easem*nt.
Who Knows What Easem*nt Lurks?
An article from the Texas A&M Real Estate Center that discusses the ways in which the courts may try and settle disputes regarding easem*nts.
