Shared Driveways

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Frequently Asked Questions

In Vermont, it’s common to share a driveway or road with your neighbors that is not maintained by your town/city.   We’ve gathered some answers to the most asked questions we receive.  If you have other questions, email us and we can add the answers here. 

You may have a formal driveway agreement or association created for this purpose. It may also be listed in your deed. If you don’t see it in your deed, you may need to go back to previous deeds, which are often referenced in your deed. These records can be found in your town office, and most are available online.

This responsibility should be shared equally by all parties who benefit from the shared driveway. This might mean you agree to share the cost of maintenance, or you take turns shoveling. Often, a formal agreement is the best bet, giving clear instructions that homeowners can rely on.

Yes! 19 V.S.A. § 2702 states In the absence of an express agreement or requirement governing maintenance of a private road, when more than one person enjoys a common benefit from a private road each person shall contribute rateably to the cost of maintaining the private road and shall have the right to bring a civil action to enforce the requirement of this section.

They are legally responsible for contributing to the care of the driveway. If they are unable to physically do so, then a monetary contribution may be a solution. Whether or not there is a written agreement in place, a conversation is always the best place to start!