What is right-of-way?
An electric transmission line right-of-way is a strip of land that we use to construct, operate, maintain and repair our transmission line facilities. A transmission line usually is 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 to 150 feet or more depending on the type of facilities planned for or located on the right-of-way. The right-of-way generally must be clear of tall-growing trees and structures that could interfere with a power line. Learn more about vegetation management on our rights-of-way.
What is an easement?
An easement is an interest in real property that gives ATC the legal right to use the property for the specific purpose of constructing, operating and maintaining a transmission line facility. When building or upgrading a power line, we typically acquire access to and use of land by purchasing easments from property owners, rather than purchasing the property outright. Landowners are compensasted for easements through a payment based on statutory guidelines. Landowners retain ownership of the real property, but its use is limited to activities that do not compromise the safety and reliability of the lines.
How is an easement acquired?
When we construct or upgrade 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 and ordered by the Public Service Commission. One of our real estate agents will negotiate with property owners based on the fair market value of the property needed for the right-of-way. We discuss 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, and
- the use of herbicidal chemicals to control weeds and brush.
In addition to compensation for the easement, we will pay for any crop damage and/or physical damage to property resulting from the construction and/or 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 to notify property owners when we plan to clear vegetation, inspect transmission line equipment or perform other maintenance activities on our rights-of-way. This notification may be in the form of a letter, postcard, door hanger or phone call. All employees and contractors carry identification. If you have any questions or concerns about the presence of individuals doing work within the right-of-way, please contact us at 1-800-972-5341. 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 (178k pdf), published by the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin.
Please contact us at localrelations@atcllc.com whenever you have land use or right-of-way maintenance questions.
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