SPECIAL POWERS OF TELEGRAPH AND TELEPHONE COMPANIES

F.S. Ch. 362

in effect

F.S. 362.01 Powers to occupy roads.

Any telegraph or telephone company chartered by this or another state, or any individual operating or desiring to operate a telegraph or telephone line, or lines, in this state, may erect posts, wires and other fixtures for telegraph or telephone purposes on or beside any public road or highway; provided, however, that the same shall not be set so as to obstruct or interfere with the common uses of said roads or highways. Permission to occupy the streets of an incorporated city or town must first be obtained from the city or town council.

F.S. 362.02 Powers of eminent domain.

Any telegraph or telephone company now organized or which may hereafter be organized under the laws of this or any other state shall have the right to construct, maintain and operate lines of telegraph or telephone along and upon the right-of-way of any railroad in the state, and to that end is granted all powers for the exercise of the right of eminent domain; provided, the ordinary travel or use of said railroad is not interfered with by reason thereof; and provided further, that no pole shall be erected nearer than 20 feet from the outer edge of the track, unless by the consent of the railroad company.

Source: FL Statutes (Official Site)URL: https://www.flsenate.gov/Laws/Statutes/2025/Chapter362/AllFetched: 7/8/2026