[kittygilchrist]

Originally Posted by livsea2

As a retired utility engineer I can say this about utility easments which are included on all deeds for at least the last fifty years in all PUD (Planned unit developments) such as the Villages. Every lot, with extremely rare exceptions, have a ten foot utility easement on all four propery lines in. There are also "extra" easements on some key lots within the development. I happen to have an "extra" five foot extention to my easement on the west side of my lot.
Technically speaking you cannot plant, place, nor improve in any way on tis land that yes you own. HOWEVER, in almost 40 years experience in sevral states I can tell you no one will ever stop you nor make you remove any plant, statues, tree, or even a driveway you would place in said easement. But the caveat is the utility, should they need to utilize the easment or right of way, they are not responsible for the repair or replacement of anything damaged that lies within the easement. Alos if there is damage to any utility equipment or property by say a tree planted in the easement, the property owner is responsible to pay a damage claim and I have seen some astronomical bills in my career....usually paid by homeowners insurance.

valuable, info from an expert. thanks.