Right of Way

Definition

Right of way is a corridor of land where a utility company has legal rights (either fee ownership or easement) to construct, operate, and maintain an electric power line and/or natural gas pipeline. It may include work on customer-owned properties.

Purpose

The purpose of right of way is to ensure utility companies have access to the land necessary to install and maintain infrastructure like power lines and pipelines, ensuring reliable service to customers.

Examples of Use

• Electric companies use right of way to install and maintain overhead power lines.
• Natural gas pipelines are laid within right of way corridors to transport gas to various regions.
• Telecommunication companies use right of way for laying fiber optic cables.

Related Terms

• Easement: A legal right to use another's land for a specific limited purpose.
• Utility Corridor: A designated area for the placement of utility infrastructure.
• Infrastructure: The basic physical systems and structures needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.

Notes

Right of way agreements typically include provisions for land restoration and compensation for the property owner.