Street Opening and Right of Way Permits

Commercial Right of Way / Street Opening Permit

(click for application)

Generally, this permit is used for any street opening (including directional boring) or for any utility contractor doing work across, under, or along a city street. This includes work within the public right of way at commercial properties or involving multiple properties. 

Detailed plans of the proposed work and a site plan, and/or a map of the location(s) are required along with a certificate of liability insurance and payment of all applicable permit and inspection fees. (Multiple locations may require multiple inspections at $75 ea.) Commercial Right of Way permits require a bond of $50,000.  Street Opening bond cost is equal to the amount of the cost to repair the road as determined by the Director of Public Works.  

Residential Right of Way Permit 

(click for application)

Generally, this permit is required for a single residential driveway apron, driveway culvert, sidewalk, curb cut, storm drain/ditch work, or any work within the public right of way at a single residential property. 

Detailed plans of the proposed work and a site plan are required along with a certificate of liability insurance, bond payment, and all applicable permit and inspection fees. (Multiple inspections will require additional inspection fees at $75 ea.)  A permit is required, however, property owners may work on their own property at their own risk without liability insurance, or under their property insurance, and work may or may not be required to carry a Right of Way Bond as determined by the Director of Public Works.  

Where is the Public Right of Way?

The public right of way is the area on your property designated for general public use like the curb, gutter, berm, sidewalk, devil strip, or tree lawn including the driveway apron/approach. These areas are part of the landowner's property, but due to their location, the city issues Street Opening and/or Right of Way permits to ensure their integrity for public use.