An easement gives one party the right to go onto another party's property. That property may be owned by a private person, a business entity, or a group of owners. Utilities often get easements that allow them to run pipes or phone lines beneath private property. Easements may be obtained for access to another property, called "access and egress", use of spring water, entry to make repairs on a fence or slide area, drive cattle across and other uses. The easement is a real property interest, but separate from the legal title of the owner of the underlying land.
A Wisconsin Grant of Easement and Joint Use Agreement is a legally binding document that grants certain rights and privileges to individuals or entities for the use of another person's property in Wisconsin. This agreement outlines the terms and conditions under which the granted parties may utilize the property owned by the granter. A grant of easement allows the grantee the right to use a specific portion of the property, without actually acquiring ownership. This can include the right to access a certain area of land, install infrastructure such as utilities, or use a specific pathway or roadway. The granter retains ownership and control over the property while allowing the grantee specific privileges. In Wisconsin, there are various types of grants of easement and joint use agreements, each tailored to specific circumstances and needs. Some common types include: 1. Right of Way Easements: These grants of easement allow individuals or entities to cross or pass through another person's property for specific purposes, such as accessing a public road or utility lines. 2. Utility Easements: This type of easement permits utility companies to install and maintain utility equipment, such as power lines, gas pipelines, or telecommunications infrastructure, on a property that is not owned by the utility company. 3. Conservation Easements: These agreements are often made between landowners and conservation organizations or government entities. Conservation easements limit certain land uses, preserving the natural environment or protecting cultural resources, while still allowing the landowner to retain ownership. 4. Solar or Wind Easements: These grants of easement allow individuals or organizations to access sunlight or wind flow on specific parts of a property for the purpose of generating renewable energy. A Joint Use Agreement, on the other hand, is an agreement between two or more parties that allows them to share and utilize a property or other asset cooperatively. This agreement typically covers the terms of access, maintenance responsibilities, cost-sharing, liability, and dispute resolution. In Wisconsin, joint use agreements can be applicable for various situations, including the sharing of common facilities between neighboring properties, the joint use of infrastructure, such as roads or bridges, or the co-use of recreational areas. It is essential for both granters and grantees to carefully review and understand the terms and obligations stated in a Wisconsin Grant of Easement and Joint Use Agreement before signing. Legal assistance may be sought to ensure that all parties involved are protected and that the agreement accurately reflects the intentions of the involved parties.
