Legal Question in Real Estate Law in Pennsylvania

Re: Boundarys and Dwellings

First check the local municipality in which the property is located to see if they have any zoning regulations about setbacks. That will control. If no set back requirement, they may use their property up to the property line

Re: Boundarys and Dwellings

Does the survey show any "set-back" requirements? These would be areas along the boundaries of your lot in which you could not build. Unless your set-bak restrictions, if there are any, were imposed by an earlier deed or your deed, very likely your township has zoning and building requirements. You may check with the township office to find out what those restrictions are and if they govern the lot next to yours.

The location of the electric pole in your yard may be permitted by a utility easement, which should be shown on your survey. If you bought title insurance when you purchased the property, it would also refer to easements and rights of ways that cross your property.

The fact that the neighboring property has been vacant since you bought your property should not affect set-back requirements.