Changes for Usage Fees on Excavation and Driveway/Sidewalk Permits

A Message from Austin Transportation and Public Works 

Austin City Council is considering code changes that will affect excavation and driveway/sidewalk permits. Currently, applicants for these permit types pay a usage fee based on the impacted structure, such as curb, sidewalk, or vehicle traffic lane. No fee is charged for the closure area to perform the work, unlike a temporary use of right-of-way permit (TURP). The TURP fee is based on size and duration of the closure and associated public impact for use of the right of way. Recognizing that excavation and driveway/sidewalk work can have just as significant an impact as non-excavation work, the proposed code changes will allow the assessment of the TURP fee for excavation and driveway/sidewalk work.  

City Council is expected to consider the change at its October 22 meeting. More information will be shared as it becomes available. For questions, please contact RightOfWay@austintexas.gov or call 512-974-7828.