Florida Couple Unable to Build on Property

A couple in Florida, Donna and her husband, faced a shocking setback after purchasing a $17,500 plot of land near Brooksville with plans to build their dream home, only to discover a decades-old Duke Energy easement that prohibits construction near a utility pole on the property. Despite conducting thorough research and receiving confirmations from county officials about the residential zoning, they were later informed by a neighbor of the easement's restrictions, which are backed by a public document from 1955. The easement requires a setback of 100 feet from the pole, rendering most of their property unusable for building. Although the county has reduced their property tax assessment due to the situation, the couple remains liable for the original purchase price of the land. Duke Energy stated that easements are necessary for safe operations and do not engage in real estate transactions related to them. This situation has left the Hartls feeling frustrated and trapped with a property they cannot develop.