Grassy Strip Property Rights

Summary

In Massachusetts, the presence of a utility box does not guarantee public property status. Land ownership varies, and utility easements may exist on private land. If the land is private, the owner can request you to leave, and refusal may lead to trespassing charges. Verify property lines with local records or authorities. If no sidewalk exists, pedestrians may walk on the road, staying close to the edge and facing traffic for safety. Always check local regulations for specific pedestrian road use rules.

Full Conversation

Imagine you’re at a bank where there’s no sidewalk or shoulder—just the road, then a narrow grassy strip, followed by a utility box, and about * feet beyond that, a bollard (a short post). Can you assume the grassy strip next to the road is public property because the utility box is there? Is it okay to walk or stand on that grassy strip as if it were a sidewalk? If you stay only on that grassy strip and don’t step beyond the utility box or onto any clearly marked private property, can the bank owner still call the police and have you arrested for trespassing?
In Massachusetts, the presence of a utility box does not automatically mean the land is public property. Here are some points to consider:
- Public vs. Private Property: Land ownership can vary, and utility easements might exist on private land.
- Trespassing: If the land is private, the owner can ask you to leave. Refusal may lead to trespassing charges.
- Clarification: It’s best to check property lines with local records or authorities.
Would you like more information on how to verify property ownership?
so walk on the road?
It's generally safest to use designated sidewalks or pedestrian pathways if availa****. Walking on the road can be risky and might not be allowed in certain areas. If there's no sidewalk, you might need to walk on the road, staying as close to the edge as possi****, facing oncoming traffic for safety. Always prioritize safety and local traffic laws.
there is no road
Case Rating: *
In situations where there is no road or sidewalk, it's important to prioritize safety and consider alternatives like walking on the grassy strip, if it is safe, or finding another route. Always verify property ownership to avoid trespassing issues. If you need more assistance on property verification, let me know!
bro there is no sidewalk only a road? wouldnt i get pedestrion on the roadway if i was on the road?
Case Rating: *
In Massachusetts, if there's no sidewalk, pedestrians may walk on the roadway, but they must stay as close to the edge as possi**** and face oncoming traffic for safety. Check local regulations to ensure compliance with any specific rules about pedestrian road use.