How Much Land Does Michigan Own on Either Side of the Road? It's More Than You Think (Unless You Think 66 Feet)
Ever stare out the window on a long road trip and wonder, "Hey, just how much of this ditch is actually, like, Michigan?" Well, my friend, you've stumbled upon a question that's both profoundly existential and oddly specific. Buckle up, because we're about to unravel the mystery of the Mitten State's property lines!
The Not-So-Secret Society of 66 Feet
In the grand scheme of Michigan roadways, there's a magic number: 66 feet. Yep, that's the standard width of land the state typically owns on either side of the center line. Think of it as an invisible fence for, well, everything road-related.
Now, hold on before you start measuring your property line with a frayed jump rope. This 66-foot rule is more like a "general guideline," with a healthy dose of "it depends" sprinkled in.
When 66 Feet Takes a Vacation: Exceptions to the Rule
Let's be honest, Michigan roads aren't exactly built with cookie-cutter precision. Here's where things get interesting:
- The Curvy Culprit: Sometimes, roads take unexpected turns. In these cases, the 66-foot rule might bend a bit to accommodate the curve.
- The Bridge Bandit: Need a bridge over a babbling brook or a roaring river? The state might need more than 66 feet to make that happen.
- The City Slicker: In bustling urban areas, 66 feet might feel downright quaint. Roads in cities often require additional space for sidewalks, bike lanes, and enough room for a squirrel to dodge a speeding taxi (hopefully).
So, How Do I Know for Sure?
Unless you have a pet surveyor with a serious case of wanderlust, figuring out the exact property line can be tricky. Here are your best bets:
- Consult the Deed: Your property deed should specify where your land ends and the state's right-of-way begins.
- Ask the County Road Commission: These folks are the kings and queens of Michigan's roadways. They have maps and info galore about specific roads.
Remember: Don't just eyeball it and start planting a victory garden in the ditch. Messing with the right-of-way can be a big no-no, so always check with the proper authorities before, well, claiming any runaway state land.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Feet
How to find out the exact property line next to a road?
Check your property deed or contact your county's Road Commission for official measurements.
How to plant trees near the road?
Before planting anything near the right-of-way, consult the Road Commission to avoid future conflicts with road maintenance.
How to widen my driveway?
Depending on the location, you might need a permit from the Road Commission to alter the right-of-way for driveway access.
How to avoid accidentally stealing state land?
Stick to your property lines as outlined in your deed and avoid any landscaping in the ditch unless you've cleared it with the Road Commission first.
How to become a professional road-side property line detective?
There's probably not a high school diploma for that, but contacting your local surveyor might be a good first step!
💡 This page may contain affiliate links — we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
