Road Approach and Driveway Permits
A Road Approach is the driveway section connecting to a public road. You must apply for a Road Approach Permit to build a new driveway or make significant changes to an existing one. This permit is necessary because the connection between your driveway and the road involves the public right of way, and it ensures that the access point is safe and meets regulations. See the Road Approach Permit Brochure for more details.
An SDAP may be required to construct or modify the part of the driveway located on your property. Typically, this is reviewed and approved as part of the building permit. However, if you need access to your property to install utilities, a septic system, or a well before applying for a building permit, you can apply for a stand-alone Road Approach Permit.
Building a Road within an Easement
Road construction will be needed if access to a property is via a private access easement and a road does not exist. It is essential first to determine that the property has the right to use the access easement. This may be stated in the property description, or a title company can assist in this determination.
Depending on the square footage of new or replaced hard surfaces created by road construction, the square footage of land disturbed, and other factors, a Site Development Activity Permit may be required. Completing the Stormwater Worksheet will help identify the level of drainage review required, whether a civil engineer is required to design the road/stormwater facilities, and whether a Site Development Activity Permit is required.
Build a Road in County Right-of-Way
If access to a property is via a County Right-of-Way and a road does not exist, road construction will be needed. Construction of a road in the County Right-of-Way requires the following permits:
1. Site Development Activity Permit - The road and stormwater facilities are required to be designed by a civil engineer. This permit is managed by the Department of Community Development.
2. Permit to Use/Improve County Right-of-Way - This permit is applied through the Department of Public Works. For more information visit the link here.