Street Opening Permit The DOT permit authorizing excavation into a city street or sidewalk, typically for utility access, subsurface repairs, or installing structures beneath the pavement.
Street Opening Permits are reviewed by DOT's Office of Construction Mitigation and Coordination (OCMC) and generally go to utility companies, licensed plumbers, and contractors performing subsurface work rather than routine flag replacement. Streets resurfaced within the last five years carry "protected" status, which triggers additional review before a new opening is approved on them. Sidewalk repair jobs occasionally need this permit alongside a standard Sidewalk Construction Permit if the work involves digging below the surface, such as fixing a void beneath a slab or accessing a utility line.
Frequently Asked Questions About Street Opening Permit
What is a Street Opening Permit?
The DOT permit authorizing excavation into a City street or sidewalk, typically for utility access, subsurface repairs or installing structures beneath the pavement.
Who normally needs one?
Utility companies, licensed plumbers and contractors performing subsurface work, rather than crews doing routine flag replacement.
When does a sidewalk repair need one?
When the work goes below the surface, such as filling a void beneath a slab or accessing a utility line, in addition to the standard Sidewalk Construction Permit.
What is a protected street?
A street resurfaced within roughly the last five years. Protected status triggers additional DOT review before a new opening is approved.
Who reviews these applications?
DOT's Office of Construction Mitigation and Coordination.