What should you do before starting a maintenance operation in a residential backyard easement?

Before starting a maintenance operation in a residential backyard easement, it is essential to contact the resident for permission. This step is crucial because the easement may be part of the resident's property, and they have the right to know when maintenance work will occur. Open communication fosters good relations between service providers and property owners, and it allows for any potential concerns or conditions to be discussed before beginning the work.

Moreover, obtaining permission ensures that the work complies with local regulations and the property owner's wishes, thus respecting their property rights. Engaging the resident can also help coordinate timing to minimize disruptions to their daily activities.

Addressing the other choices: notifying local authorities may be unnecessary unless specific regulations or ordinances dictate otherwise. Starting work immediately without consulting the resident can lead to conflicts and possible complaints. Conducting an inspection without permission disregards the property owner's rights and could lead to legal repercussions or damage to the relationship between the service provider and the homeowner.