Unopened ROW's

[Prospector]

Has anyone successfully pressured municipalities to either a) open a previously unopened ROW, or b) to allow access via an unopened ROW?

The only cases where I have seen this done is in large scale developments which add loads of tax dollars or value to a community.  Any success stories out there?

[speedfreeksteve]

I'm assuming you're particularly referring to road allowances, but for purposes here.. it's basically the same situation.

They are permanently closing unopened road allowances alot more than they are opening them these days. Occasionally they can be convinced to close one if its relatively small and serves no purpose to them and sell it to an adjoining landowner.

Access via an unopened road allowance is VERY difficult to get them to agree to.. largely due to liability that they can avoid just by saying "NO", which is alot easier than having them sign a legal document (which can never be 100% bulletproof on their side).

My opinion is, I wouldn't be looking to buy a property where access to it rides on either.

[markymark]

Has anyone successfully pressured municipalities to either a) open a previously unopened ROW, or b) to allow access via an unopened ROW?

The only cases where I have seen this done is in large scale developments which add loads of tax dollars or value to a community.  Any success stories out there?

Access shouldn't be denied but will be expensive on your part.survey,permission to clear,clear,dozer,
gravel,voila access.
Check your municipality's official plan for what they may be responsible for.

[Dave2]

Got some updated information locally:

a) While township will not open it up, they may allow you to purchase.  (depends on the council and adjacent landowners.)  Thus you can then
construct a driveway. 

Cost was not that high $1,000 per acre and $1,000 for application to council. 

Adjacent landowners may have a big say in this one.  Another issue is getting a building permit, but that was not at issue in this case because the
lot also fronts on another road. Desire was the possibility of coming into the lot from the rear. 

Of course now some of you guys are thinking severance possibility?