RIGHT OF WAY
PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY: WHAT IT IS AND WHAT IT MEANS FOR YOU You mow it. You edge it. You might even landscape it...but part of what looks like your front yard may not actually be yours. In fact, “public right-of-way”—the strip of land between the street and your yard adjacent to the street—is actually owned by the city for things we all rely on like streets, sidewalks, utilities, drainage and snow storage. And it plays a bigger role than most of us realize. (It’s different than an easement, which usually means you own the land, but the city or a utility has permission to use part of it for a specific purpose, such as a water line or drainage).
Why it matters Setbacks are measured from the right-of-way line, not from the edge of the street. That is why a fence, shed or retaining wall may not be allowed as close to the road as you expect. Visibility also matters. At intersections and driveways, vegetation cannot block sight lines. In general: » Vegetation should not exceed two feet in height in sight areas » Tree branches must provide clearance over streets and sidewalks » Signs and hydrants must remain clearly visible Landscaping You may mow and maintain the boulevard area. Permanent structures, large landscaping features, boulders and walls are generally not allowed in the right- of-way. Private trees may not be planted there. If you install irrigation heads, decorative lighting or other items in the right-of-way, you assume the risk of damage from plows and maintenance equipment. Mailboxes Mailboxes are allowed but must meet city and USPS standards. If a plow directly strikes a mailbox, the city will repair or reimburse up to the standard amount. Before you build or dig Planning a fence, driveway expansion, tree planting or landscaping project near the street? Call first. It is much easier to confirm where the right-of-way line is before starting work than to fix something later.
The bottom line The public right-of-way may feel like part of your yard, but it plays an important role in keeping Chanhassen safe and functional. When in doubt, a quick call to Planning or Engineering (952) 227-1100 can save time and frustration.
Installation Areas
Possible Drainage & Utility Easement
Curb
COMMON RIGHT-OF-WAY QUESTIONS Can I remove a tree near the street?
Check with the city first. Some trees are within the right-of-way and cannot be removed without approval.
What if I want to dig?
Always call 811 before digging. If your project extends into the right-of-way, a permit may be required.
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SUMMER 2026 | CITY OF CHANHASSEN
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