VersaTube Help Center
What do I Need to Know about Property Lines
Did you know that there may be locations on your property where you can’t build a garage or other type of permanent structure? The best way to find out about any property line restrictions is by referring to the official land plat.
Copies of plats are normally on file at the City or County. If your property corner pins are in place and you’re reasonably sure they haven’t been disturbed, it is often possible to use string lines and a tape measure to determine the locations of setbacks and easements. However, if there is any doubt in your mind, it may be better to spend a little at the beginning of the project for a professional surveyor rather than possibly spending a lot later to relocate your building.
- Property lines – all of your property lines should be shown on the plat and depending on how long ago you settled on the property, there’s a good chance there are actual pins in the ground at the property corners. If your pins are gone, a surveyor can reestablish the points.
- Setbacks – most jurisdictions have restrictions on how close a permanent structure can be built to a property line – the actual distance can vary depending on whether it’s a rear, side, or front boundary. The setback distances should be shown on your plat. It may be possible to get a variance if there are special circumstances, but apply for it before you start construction or you may be moving your structure.
- Easements – these are areas on your property that someone else controls – it doesn’t make sense, but that’s just the way it is. The most common types of easements are drainage and utility and if there are any on your lot, they should be shown on the plat. They’re normally designated by dashed lines. If you have a utility easement down the side of your property, that means the power company can have access to that area at any time and in most cases, that a permanent structure can’t be located within its boundaries.
Loading...