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Right-of-way and easements
An electric transmission line right-of-way is a strip of land that ATC uses to construct, maintain and repair our transmission line facilities. A transmission line is usually centered in the right-of-way. The width of a right-of-way depends on the voltage of the line and the height of the structures, but can be 75-150 feet or more depending on the type of facilities planned for or located on the right-of-way. The right-of-way must generally be clear of tall-growing trees and structures that could interfere with a power line.
What is an easement?
An easement is an agreement between ATC and a property owner, which grants ATC the right to use the land. When building or upgrading a power line, utilities typically acquire strips of lands by purchasing easements from property owners, rather than purchasing the property. An easement grants a utility the right to build, operate and maintain a power line. Landowners retain ownership of their property, but its use is restricted and limited to purposes that do not conflict with the terms of ATC's easement, or compromise safety and reliability.
How is an easement acquired?
When we construct or expand a transmission line that requires the use of a landowner's property, we must meet certain requirements when seeking to acquire an easement for the right-of-way. Easement negotiations begin after a project has been approved by the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin. A real estate agent from ATC will negotiate with property owners based on the fair market value of the property needed for the right-of-way. We discuss with property owners the easement rights and specifics of the project including:
- The length and width of the right-of-way
- The number of structures
- The height and design of the structures
- The height, number and voltage of the wires
- Right-of-way clearing and construction practices
- The project schedule
- Post-construction maintenance and right-of-way access
- The use of herbicidal chemicals to control weeds and brush
In addition to compensation for the easement, we will pay for any crop damages and/or physical damages to property resulting from the construction and maintenance of the transmission line.
Will ATC notify property owners when maintenance work is planned on an existing right-of-way?
It is our practice at ATC to notify property owners when we plan to trim trees, inspect equipment, or perform other maintenance activities on our rights-of-way. This notification may be in the form of a letter, door hanger, or phone call. All employees and contractors carry identification. If you're unsure about the presence of individuals doing work within the right-of-way, please contact ATC at 1-800-877-8180. Use this number or call your local law enforcement agency to report any suspicious individuals or activities you may observe in the vicinity of transmission lines.
Rights and Responsibilities
For more information about the laws and regulations governing easement acquisition and negotiations in Wisconsin, download Right-of-Way and Easements for Electric Facility Construction (153k pdf), published by the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin.
Please contact us at info@atcllc.com whenever you have land use or right-of-way maintenance questions.
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