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Encroachment Permit

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Why do I need this permit?

An Encroachment Permit is generally required to ensure that any work that occurs on public streets and sidewalks is performed according to current construction standards. Encroachment permits are required for activities within the public right-of-way (PROW) or public easements for all projects that are not a part of a subdivision application. Activities can include the following:

Installation of new improvements (e.g., curb, gutter, sidewalk, underground utilities)
Repair or replacement of existing improvements
Storage of materials
Installation, removal, or inspection of monitoring wells
Placement of scaffolding
Driving of trucks and equipment over curb, gutter, and sidewalk
Minor relocation of existing improvements
Small cell antenna installation on City streetlights

How to Obtain an Encroachment Permit

New engineering permits can be requested online at Fremont.gov/CitizenAccess. In Citizen Access, there are five (5) Engineering Permit record types: Encroachment (ENC); Grading (GRA); Small Cell License (SCL); Subdivision (SAM); and Technical Peer Review (TPR).

Encroachment Permit Submittal Checklists

Resources

Engineering Application Form (for in-person submittals only)
Billing Authorization & Reimbursement Agreement
Traffic Control Plan Application
Insurance Requirements
Surety Requirements
Plans and Specifications Requirements
Standard Construction Notes for Public Improvement Plans
Fee Schedule

Other City Permits

For information about other City of Fremont permits that are not processed and issued by Engineering, please visit the City’s Permits webpage for more information..

Permit Fees

For fee information, see the Fee Schedules.

Coordinating with Other Agencies

To assist you in obtaining your permits, coordination with outside agencies may be necessary. Visit our Agency Coordination List for the contact information of these different agencies.

What do I do once I get this permit?

If your work involves digging, call USA Underground Alert at (800) 227-2600, two working days prior to the start to the start of work
Notify the inspector of your project at least one working day prior to commencement and upon completion of work
The inspector's name and telephone number is located at the bottom of the permit
Issuance of an Encroachment Permit does not relieve the permittee of the responsibility to obtain permits that may be required by other agencies.

Questions

If you have any questions about the Encroachment Permit application process, please call the Engineering Information Line at 510-494-4700 or contact Engineering staff by email.

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FAQs

How do I know if I need an encroachment permit?

You will need to apply for this permit if you plan to do any construction work in the sidewalk area or in the streets.
Do I need an encroachment permit if I'm getting my sewer fixed?

If any part of the sewer repair work occurs under the sidewalk or the street, then the answer is yes.
Do I need this permit if I am installing a swimming pool?

Yes. An encroachment permit is required since heavy equipment access over the sidewalks and curbs is usually necessary for this type of work.
What do I need before I submit an encroachment permit application?
You will need the following:
1. Two copies of a plan (or a sketch showing the work)
2. A bond or CD, which serves as a security deposit.
3. Evidence of insurance coverage. In many cases, a homeowner's insurance policy will have enough coverage.
4. A completed encroachment permit application.
View Encroachment Permit Procedures for more detailed information on the above requirements.

If you have any questions or need assistance preparing your application, contact the Engineering Division at (510) 494-4700 and our staff will help you.
How much does an encroachment permit cost?

The cost of the permit will depend on the work involved. More detailed information on fees are available in the "Fee Schedule" file located under Resources section of the Encroachment Permit page.
What do I need to do once I have an encroachment permit?
Once you have your permit, there are two things you must do before you start any work:
1. Call USA Underground Alert at 1 (800) 227-2600, two business days before the start of work.
2. Call the inspector at least one day before the start of work. The inspector's name and telephone number is listed at the bottom of the permit.
Do I need any other permits for my work?
Possibly. It depends on what work you plan to do. Check with other agencies to see whether they require permits for your proposed work.
- Tree Permits for any work that involves a street tree
- Alameda County Water District for work on your water line
- Union Sanitary District for work on your sewer line
Do I need this permit if I want a temporary dumpster?

Yes, if you place the dumpster on the street, you will need an encroachment permit.

If you keep the dumpster on your property at all times, then no permit is required.

More FAQs