Guidelines and Procedures for Right-of-Way Access and Construction
1. Purpose
This document outlines the requirements, procedures, and standards for obtaining access to and performing work within the public right-of-way in the City of Pittsburgh. The Department of Public Works (DPW) enforces these regulations to ensure public safety, infrastructure integrity, and minimal disruption to residents and businesses.
It is unlawful to obstruct or conduct construction activities within the public right-of-way without securing the appropriate permits from DPW. Such activities include, but are not limited to:
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Demolition
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Erection of structures
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Excavation
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Relocation, repair, or maintenance of overhead and underground facilities
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Staging of dumpsters, machinery, and equipment
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Special events
The public right-of-way encompasses City-owned infrastructure designated for public use, including streets, sidewalks, bridges, sewers, parks, and greenways.
DPW establishes and enforces standards to ensure public safety, minimize disruptions, and maintain infrastructure integrity. Compliance with these guidelines is mandatory for all permit applicants.
1.1 Requests for Policy Reconsideration
In exceptional cases, requirements may be reconsidered due to unique field conditions. Requests must be submitted in advance of the planned construction to DPW. The department will schedule a site meeting with the applicant, followed by a review of meeting minutes. Approved reconsiderations may necessitate additional agreements, such as Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs), which may require legislative approval.
2. Policy Overview
The City acknowledges the need for right-of-way access by utility companies, contractors, and other entities. To streamline permitting and minimize conflicts, uniform standards have been established to ensure essential services are maintained with minimal public inconvenience. All right-of-way activities fall under the supervision of the DPW Director to ensure compliance with safety and operational standards.
3. Policy Objectives
This policy supplements the City of Pittsburgh Code of Ordinances, Article I - Public Right-of-Way. In cases of conflict, City Code prevails. The primary objectives are:
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Ensuring public safety for all right-of-way users
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Minimizing disruptions for residents and businesses
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Protecting City infrastructure through standardized construction requirements
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Defining permit structures, responsibilities, and compliance obligations
4. Permit Structure
A permit is required before commencing any work in the public right-of-way.
4.1 Street or Sidewalk Opening Permit
Required for any excavation or construction impacting City streets or sidewalks. Fees are based on square yardage as per City Code. Contractors typically coordinate these permits.
4.2 Traffic Obstruction Permit
Required for activities affecting vehicular, pedestrian, or bicycle infrastructure. A Maintenance and Protection of Traffic (MPT) plan must be submitted for DPW approval. Coordination with the Pittsburgh Parking Authority is necessary for impacts on public parking.
4.3 Machinery in the Right-of-Way Permit
Required for placing machinery or equipment in the right-of-way, even if no pavement or earth disturbance occurs.
4.4 Encroachment Permit
Required for private structures or facilities that permanently occupy public right-of-way space, including utilities, bike racks, retaining walls, and ADA access points. These permits require legislative approval and may take several months to process.
4.5 Vacation of Public Right-of-Way
Public right-of-way vacations terminate public access and require approval from all affected utility companies. This process involves legislative approval and coordination with multiple stakeholders.
4.6 Dedication of Public Infrastructure
Newly constructed streets, sidewalks, and other infrastructure can be dedicated to the City, provided they meet City standards. Dedication requires compliance with specifications, final inspections, and legislative approval.
4.7 Curb Cut Permit
Required for vehicular access from public streets to private property. Depending on the project scope, public right-of-way improvements may need DPW approval before permit issuance.
4.8 Public Right-of-Way Improvements
Any modification to the geometry, composition, or operation of the right-of-way requires DPW review of engineered construction plans. This process can take several weeks.
4.9 Tree Planting or Removal Permit
Required for planting or removing trees within the public right-of-way. Coordination with the City Forester is necessary.
4.10 Bridges, Trails, and Parks
Projects impacting City-owned bridges, trails, or parks require separate permits and coordination with relevant City divisions.
4.11 Special Events
Applications for special events affecting the right-of-way must follow procedures established by the City's Office of Special Events.
5. Compliance and Enforcement
All permit applications must include applicant contact details, project location, and emergency contacts. Failure to obtain required permits will result in fines and citations. Some streets may have additional restrictions during major City events.
DPW requires adherence to Pennsylvania One-Call System regulations before initiating any underground work to ensure the safety of existing utilities.
This policy ensures that all right-of-way activities are conducted safely, efficiently, and with minimal community disruption. Adhering to these guidelines helps utility companies, contractors, and other entities contribute to the safe and sustainable development of Pittsburgh’s infrastructure.
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