Easements on Private Property – For System, Access, and Service.
An easement secures Camano Water Association’s (CWA) long-term ability to access property, operate and maintain our water system, manage trees and vegetation, and make future system improvements to provide safe and clean water to our customers.
No matter the type of utility easement, whether given to a private company or public utility like CWA, either below or above ground, the easement is to allow a utility company use of and access to your property to install and maintain services. Where a utility easement is granted on a property, the landowner must respect the area or space given to the utility company and keep the easement area free and clear of any encroachments or obstructions. The property owner cannot build or plant anything that may prevent CWA from installing or replacing water pipes or maintaining the lines. If you build or plant anything that interferes with CWA’s ability to deliver water or perform maintenance or poses a risk to our water system and services, CWA has the right to have you remove the encroachment or obstruction. Bear in mind that any required removals are typically the property owner’s responsibility, as are any incurred costs.
Sometimes, future new water system infrastructure may not fit within the public rights-of-way. If this happens, it may be necessary to obtain a new easement on private property, but only if a utility easement does not already exist. CWA will work with property owners, as necessary, to obtain an easement where one is needed for our system.
If you request new water service for your property, a new easement may be required before CWA can provide the new service, unless an existing easement is already in place. As the property owner, it is your responsibility to obtain any required easements if one does not exist.
Download & read the documents below to learn more about Property Owner’s Use of CWA Easements, Other’s Use of CWA Easements and Property, Complaints about CWA Property or Easements, and ohter frequently asked questions about easements.
