If a person buys land for investment, are they obliged to maintain/mow it or can it be left wild?

Question

Lets say I buy a couple of acres beyond regular city limits, am I obliged to mow and clear it, or can it be wild? If a trespasser breaks a leg, am I liable?

Answer 1

Generally, yes, you are liable for any injuries occurring on your property (often even when you put up no trespassing signs and the injury was the direct result of the actions of the injured).

Whether you have to maintain it depends on your local ordinances. Check with City Hall.

Answer 2

You are not obligated by law, but an intelligent and responsible investor would properly maintain their land because:

1. Fire Hazard
2. If a fire occurs, you'll also have mudslides to deal with if you're on a hill.
3. Most cities have a weed abatement ordinance. It usually requires a complaint from a neighbor, but the city could force you to "clean up" the yard, or be subjected to fines. Since you're looking beyond city limits, you should check with your county website for their policy.

Depending on the state you live in, property owners are not necessarily subject to premises liability laws when it comes to injuries incurred by trespassers on their property. This is also true of burglars and other uninvited guests. Children are an exception to the trespassing rule because the law acknowledges that children often do not perceive danger as well as adults. A property owner must take steps to ensure the safety of children who play in the area, even if they are not supposed to be there.

Answer 3

If someone comes on your land and gets hurt, you can be held liable. As for maintenance, you would need to check with the county and see what laws they have covering rural property and upkeep.

Answer 4

No, if its outside city limits, let it go, but put up signs for NO TRESPASSING, than your safe, and take pictures in case they take down the signs.