Where can I find resources answers regarding drainage easements on a piece of property?

There are several resources regarding drainage easements on the property and how they are established.

• The property deed should be reviewed as it will include legally recorded references to any drainage easement on the land.
• A land surveyor should be contacted regarding any drainage easements. The surveyor should be able to provide references regarding drainage easements and how they were established on a piece of property.
• The town should be able to provide records of any resolutions associated with any original development which may be related to providing an easement. A drainage easement typically gives the highway department, the Soil & Water Conservation District, or another organization the ability to access the property to clear drainage courses and structures to prevent damage to the roadways and properties.
• The local Soil and Water Conservation District may also be able to provide assistance regarding drainage easements.
• The New York State LTAP Center - Cornell Local Roads Program has a publication that discusses many of these kinds of issues (see link under resources.)

Resources

Drainage Law and Drainage Situations and Problems in New York State
https://cornell.app.box.com/v/clrp-pb-d

January 2018