What is “right-of-way”? Right-of-way or “ROW” is a strip of land owned by the Village usually for a public street, storm water conveyance, or other public use.
How wide or big is the typical right-of-way?
Typically a right-of-way is 66 feet wide. This will include the paved portion of the road, normally 33 feet wide, and about 16.5 feet on either side of the paved street. The space along the road side is reserved for ditches, culverts, utilities, storm sewers, road signs, and other public uses.
Do I pay property taxes on the right-of-way in front of my house? No. The Village owns the right-of-way. You only pay taxes on property you own, as described on your plat of survey.
Who maintains the right-of-way? The Village and the private property owner share responsibility for maintaining the right-of-way. The Village repairs and replaces the street and fixes street signs, under street culverts and ditches, while the homeowner mows and maintains the grass and the driveway apron and culvert.
What can I put in the right-of-way in front of my house? Mailboxes on standard posts and minimal landscaping such as turf grass and flowers.
What should I NOT put in the right-of-way? Electric dog fences, these are often cut when ditch work is required. Large boulders, posts, trees, shrubs and light fixtures; these are hazardous to snow plow drivers, and will be removed if ditch or road work is required.
