Sewer easements provide RVSD the legal right of use and access to any of its facilities, equipment or assets that are located on private property in order to maintain the sewer system.
Some easements are explicitly recorded as encumbrances on private property, and the rest are prescriptive easements because they have existed in their locations for decades. Legal right of access applies whether or not the easement is recorded.
Click here to learn more about RVSD's right to access and access procedures.
To maintain the public easement:
- Do not plant trees within the easement as roots can damage infrastructure and create blockages.
- Keep the easement clear of debris and do not place any objects on manhole lids.
- Do not build gates or fences over manhole lids. Permanent structures cannot be built within an easement.
- If you plan to install a fence that restricts access, notify RVSD and ensure a gate is installed for easy access.
- If you plan to add a lock to your gate, notify RVSD and provide a key copy or combination for our staff.
RVSD has authority to remove any obstruction impeding access to District infrastructure. Property owners may be held fully financially responsible for: any damage from sewage backups or spills at any and all affected properties, and all associated costs incurred by RVSD.
The image below shows impeded access to a manhole.
