Utility Permits & Construction Road Closure Requests

A Utility Permit is required for construction work within the public right-of-way. This commonly includes the installation of fiber cable, water lines, sewer lines, and lane closures associated with construction, tree removal, or roadway work.

When a Utility Permit Is Not Required

A Utility Permit is generally not required for:

• Residential builders connecting to an existing water meter, gas service, or sewer connection
• Contractors accessing utility infrastructure located within a private-property easement

Who Can Apply for a Utility Permit?

Utility Permits may be obtained by:

• Licensed contractors
• Property owners, if the property is their current permanent residence

For commercial properties, the contractor performing the work typically applies for the permit.

Applying for a Utility Permit

Applications can be submitted online through the City's Online Permitting Portal (Opens in a new tab).

The portal can also be used to:

• Submit construction drawings
• Pay invoices
• Request inspections
• Track permit status

Applicants may also schedule an appointment through QLess (opens in new tab) to meet with a Permit Technician at City Hall.

Permit Fees

Permit fees are based on the linear footage of installed fiber cable, wire, or piping.

• Minimum application fee: $275
• Flat fee for water or sewer installation: $425

View the Permit Fee Schedule (PDF opens in new tab) for additional fee information.

Permit Technicians can also assist with calculating permit fees.

Application Requirements

• Licensed contractors must provide a business license and state-issued identification.
• The Utility Permit Application (opens in new tab) is located on page 17 of the Utility Permit Policy (PDF opens in new tab) .

Key Application Requirements

• Methodology: Clearly explain the proposed work and construction method in the application description field.
• Traffic Control: Include a Traffic Control Plan compliant with MUTCD standards.
• Restoration: Identify all disturbed right-of-way areas and explain how they will be restored to equal or better condition.

Lane Closure Requests

Lane closure requests require additional details, including:

• Methodology: Explain the work being performed and why a lane closure is necessary.
• Traffic Control: Include a MUTCD-compliant Traffic Control Plan and applicable Typical Application references.
• Schedule: The City requires a 30-day notice for lane closure requests. After final approval, an additional five business days are required for resident outreach.
• Restoration: Describe all impacted right-of-way features and restoration plans.

Utility Signage Template

The City provides a Notice of Utility Work signage template (PDF opens in new tab) for projects involving work areas greater than 500 feet.

Call Before You Dig

Before excavation begins, contact Georgia 811 (opens in new tab) several days in advance to request underground utility marking services.

Utility companies will mark the approximate locations of underground lines, pipes, and cables to help ensure safe excavation.

Please note that City-owned fiber lines are not included in the Georgia 811 Utility Locate System. Contractors must pothole for fiber before excavation begins.

Refer to the Utility Permits Map (opens in new tab) to identify City fiber locations.

Learn How to Identify Which Utility Company Is Working Outside Your Home (opens in new tab)