What is the difference between a setback, an easement and a right-of-way?
A setback is simply the closest distance that a structure is "set back" from a property line.

An easement is a separately recorded item that designates that some other party has a right over that portion of land, although the property owner owns the underlying land. (For example, the city or other utilities may have a 5 foot wide easement along a side property line, which means that they have the right to trespass over and work within that easement area.)

A right-of-way is the term used for the land owned by a public agency and used for city roads and state and federal highways; the right-of-way usually extends beyond the roadway itself. (Many city roads may be between 31 feet and 41 feet wide within a 60 foot wide right-of-way, which would also include any parkway, the sidewalk, and up to 4 1/2 feet behind the sidewalk.)

Show All Answers

1. How do I find the zoning of a property?
2. Where can I find the zoning ordinance (Title 11) regulations?
3. How do I know what setbacks apply to my residential property?
4. What are the regulations for a detached structure on my lot?
5. What are the regulations for an attached patio cover or carport on my lot?
6. What are the regulations for a fence or wall on my lot?
7. What do I need for a zoning review?
8. Is my front (or street side) property line at the back of the sidewalk?
9. Can I build a fence that extends to the back of the sidewalk?
10. How do I find out what my property line dimensions are?
11. Do I need my neighbor's permission to build a fence on our property line?
12. How do I access the County Assessor's Office website to search property ownership data?
13. What do I need for a variance?
14. Does my request need to go to the Planning Commission or City Council for approval?
15. How do I find out about sign regulations?
16. What kind of "For Sale" or "Open House" signs am I allowed to have on my property?
17. How do I find out what easements are on my property?
18. How do I find out if there is an existing plot plan for my property which shows where my house is?
19. How do I find out if the city has a copy of the building plans for my house?
20. How is building height measured?
21. Are there special restrictions for properties in the historic district?
22. I own a corner lot. Is the front property line the 1 my front door faces?
23. There is an existing apartment in / behind the house I own, or am considering purchasing. Can I continue to use the apartment?
24. Can I build a mother-in-law quarters or guest house on my residential lot?
25. Where can I get demographic data for Boulder City?
26. What is boulder city's current population?
27. When does the planning commission meet?
28. What is the difference between a setback, an easement and a right-of-way?
29. How does the city's growth control ordinance apply to me?
30. What do I need to run a business out of my home?
31. Can I get zoning or subdivision applications online?