Knowledge Base

Encroachment has occurred along waterways, right-of-ways, trail corridors, forested park areas 
and general park lands. The encroachments have included vegetable gardens, flower plots, wood 
and construction storage, fences, dog kennels, RV-boat-trailer storage and utility sheds. 
Encroachment activities generally fall into four categories:

1. Structures (e.g., fences, sheds, retaining walls, dog kennels, signs, etc.)
2. Landscaping (e.g., flower and vegetable gardens, tree planting, grade alterations, etc.)
3. Storage (e.g., firewood stacks, recreational equipment, yard furniture, etc.)
4. Disposal (e.g., dumping of grass clippings, leaves, and brush)

Several problems are associated with these seemingly harmless activities:

• They may inhibit access for Property or Facility maintenance
• Added landscaping or construction creates an unrealistic expectation of the City’s
  restoration obligation if damaged during maintenance.
• Under storm event conditions, encroachments can obstruct the intended flow of surface
  storm water and cause localized flooding and flood damage.
• The use of the City property by private parties may restrict the intended use of the property
  on behalf of the general public.
• Use of public property provides specific benefits to individuals that are generally not
  available to other citizens.
• Unauthorized use of public property creates an unwarranted liability burden upon the City.

Learn more about Encroachment Rules, Regulations and Enforcement at:

Encroachment | City of Rochester