How to Divide a Driveway
Most homes come with their own driveway, but occasionally, builders place a driveway between two homes. Driveways shared by two neighbors are a common source of frustration. Some neighbors block parts of the driveway, restricting access and preventing you from using it. If you have legal ownership of part of the driveway, you have the right to divide the driveway evenly. Placing a physical boundary on the driveway is a fair way to divide the property.
Look at your property's easement to determine who legally owns the driveway. Most cities keep easements in the land-records office. If both you and your neighbor have legal right to use the driveway, you need to split it equally. In some occasions, only one neighbor owns the driveway, and the other neighbor has no legal right to use or divide it.
- Most homes come with their own driveway, but occasionally, builders place a driveway between two homes.
- In some occasions, only one neighbor owns the driveway, and the other neighbor has no legal right to use or divide it.
Install a flagpole or post at the end of the driveway to divide it evenly. Each neighbor parks his car in front of the flagpole closest to his house.
Build a fence that runs down the middle of the driveway. Do not build a fence that blocks access to your neighbor's part of the driveway.
Paint a white or yellow line down the middle of the driveway to divide it. A painted line is not as intrusive or expensive as a fence.
Verbally agree with your neighbor to only use your half of the driveway. In the agreement, state that you will not block or obstruct his half. Agree to keep the driveway clean. A verbal agreement works well if you and your neighbor have a good relationship.
- Install a flagpole or post at the end of the driveway to divide it evenly.
Tip
If you or your neighbor cannot fairly divide the driveway, ask a neutral third party to do it for you. A neutral party will divide the driveway evenly. If your neighbor refuses to honor a property easement stating that you have the right to use the driveway, contact a lawyer.
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Writer Bio
Melissa King began writing in 2001. She spent three years writing for her local newspaper, "The Colt," writing editorials, news stories, product reviews and entertainment pieces. She is also the owner and operator of Howbert Freelance Writing. King holds an Associate of Arts in communications from Tarrant County College.
