How can I get a copy of the easement on my property?
Your best resource is a local title company or your county recorder’s office. Idaho Power does not offer easement research, though we can answer questions about the easement document itself. This helps keep our cost of service and customer rates low.
Can I put landscaping next to an underground power facility or transformer?
Idaho Power easements include Idaho Power’s right to access the easement area and remove vegetation when necessary to access our equipment. If you have questions, an Idaho Power distribution designer from your region might be able to help. Call 208-388-2323, or 1-800-488-6151 from outside the Treasure Valley, and ask to speak to a distribution designer.
There are weeds growing in the Idaho Power easement area on my property. Who is responsible for removing them?
An easement simply grants Idaho Power the right to use the land for its power facilities. It does not grant ownership of the land. Idaho Power might treat vegetation around power poles to prevent fires, but weed maintenance is the responsibility of the landowner.
Can I build a fence within the easement area?
Idaho Power easements do not ban fences. However, Idaho Power crews need to be able to access the power line for routine or emergency maintenance. If the fence prevents access, our crews might remove a portion of the fence to gain access.
Where is my property boundary line? Can you verify this through your easement records?
Idaho Power does not provide boundary line locations for landowners. Property owners can review their property deeds for written legal descriptions of their property boundaries. Copies of property deeds can be obtained through title companies or county recorders’ offices if the landowner does not have the deed. Surveying companies can locate your property boundary lines on the ground.
Idaho Power crews just came in and built a line in the wrong location or without permission. Who do I call?
Call 208-388-2323, or 1-800-488-6151 from outside the Treasure Valley, and describe your concern. You will be routed to the regional operation center for your area. Our easement specialists can review easement documents and accompanying legal descriptions. The regional operations center can provide information on power line installations.
My neighbors received a new line extension to their home from the power line I originally paid for. Can I receive a partial refund on my payment for the original power line?
The refund process for customer power line extensions is handled through our regional operations centers. This is an automated process. You should receive a check if you are entitled to a refund. If you wish to speak to someone directly, call 208-388-2323, or 1-800-488-6151 from outside the Treasure Valley, and select the “Construction” option. Explain you’re checking on a possible line extension refund. We will help with your request.
I’m building a shop or other structure on my property. How close can it be to the power line?
Contact us at 208-388-2323, or 1-800-488-6151 from outside the Treasure Valley, in advance if you have any questions regarding required clearances for Idaho Power lines. Our distribution designers can address the required clearances for your situation. Clearances may be required by the National Electric Safety Code, internal Idaho Power clearance standards, Idaho’s powerline safety law, or as determined on a case-by-case basis.
I want to lock the gate to my property. How can I allow Idaho Power access while I’m away?
Contact us at 208-388-2323, or 1-800-488-6151 from outside the Treasure Valley, and ask to speak with the Maintenance group. A daisy chain lock might be an option.
Do I have to have an easement?
This depends on several factors. An easement might not be necessary in certain circumstances. Call 208-388-2323, or 1-800-488-6151 from outside the Treasure Valley, and ask to speak to a right-of-way agent or easement specialist.