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Step 1
First you should understand the laws of eminent domain. Eminent domain can be granted to an electric utility for a power line if the landowner and company cannot reach a reasonable agreement. Eminent domain will basically condemn your land and compensate you what is determined to be fair market value for the easement. To prevent this you should start by contacting neighboring landowners and find out what kind of deal they have made with the power company. Next find a qualified real estate attorney to negotiate the deal.
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Step 2
Your attorney can help in negotiating the power line right of way deal but you need to provide information that will allow any negotiations with the utility company to be in your favor. Determine how much land the power line towers will take out of agricultural or other production. During the construction phase your fences and gates will be altered. Be sure to negotiate the details of how your fences are to be repaired into the easement agreement. You can negotiate details such as what type of grass seed you want used to repair disturbed areas. Also, you can control details as what the maximum speed of work vehicles on your property is during both the power line installation and maintenance phase.
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Step 3
Finally make sure that the utility company abides by all the common safeguards to you and your property. Large power lines give off static charges which can electrify fences and gates directly under the line. Make sure the power line company grounds all gates and fences that run under the power line to protect you and your livestock against shock.
