Right-of-way (ROW) permits help us plan and coordinate safe and effective use of our shared public roads, sidewalks, alley ways, and other thoroughfares. The term \\\"public right-of-way\\\" is used to describe land controlled by public agencies and includes streets, alleys, public sidewalks, curbs, and the area between the curb and sidewalk (the berm or green area), as well as the spaces above and below these ROW features. The vertically adjacent spaces are required for many uses of a right-of-way, including, for example to ensure overhead clearance for vehicles, and space for utility lines and other infrastructure objects.
Work within the city's Right of Way is managed by the City Engineering Division of the Department of Public Works (DPW). In accordance with Detroit Code Section 43, Division 2, it is necessary to obtain a permit from the City Engineering Division, DPW prior to construction and other activities that will affect a street, alley, sidewalk, or berm/green area. This includes:
+ Construction that involves altering or blocking a ROW, including Installing utilities like water mains, gas lines, telecommunications lines, installing water or sewer taps, replacing sidewalks, driveway approach, and so on.
+ Occupying a ROW such that a temporary sidewalks,lane, or street closure is required, including for having a crane or other construction equipment in a ROW, filming, special events, dumpsters, and so on.
+ Oversized or Overweight Loads.