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.
A Driveway Permit is 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.
Build a Road in 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 - road and stormwater facilities, designed by a civil engineer is required. This permit is managed by the Department of Community Development.
2. Permit to Use/Improve County Right-of-Way - there are different categories of this permit, discussed below. This permit is managed by the Public Works Department.
- Category I Permit - to be used when the applicant proposes that the County assume road maintenance after construction.
- Category II Permit- to be used when the applicant proposes that maintenance responsibilities rest with the abutting property owners.
