Bradenton, FL Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)

Section 62-4 of the Code of Ordinances is the right-of-way work permit in chapter 62 of the City of Bradenton code. Subsection (a) makes it unlawful to break into, tear into, cut into or go beneath any paved or hard-surfaced street, highway or sidewalk, for the purpose of laying any gas, sewer, water, electric or other lines, pipes or connections, or for any purpose whatsoever, without a permit previously obtained from the director of public works. The words for any purpose whatsoever widen the permit beyond utility work.

Subsection (b) sets the application steps. The person who needs the permit applies to the director of public works. The director causes an investigation and an estimate of the approximate cost of repairing the street, highway or sidewalk. The director then requires the applicant to deposit that estimated amount in cash before the permit is granted. The deposit is the city's security for the restoration: if the person does not repair the street, highway or sidewalk within ten days, to the satisfaction of the director of public works, the director is authorized to use the deposited fund to make the repair and to return any unused amount to the person, plus ten percent supervision.

The code separates this permit from sidewalk paving approval. Section 62-36 makes it unlawful to construct or lay pavement on a public sidewalk, or to repair it, without first securing approval; the application goes to the building department and must state the location, the extent of the work and the person who will do the construction, and approval issues only where the work will conform to the requirements of the city. Section 62-111(a) adds a wider limit on use of public roads and rights-of-way: except when a permit or license has been issued by an appropriate governmental entity, or the use is authorized by the rules of the state department of transportation, it is unlawful to use them in a way that interferes with the safe and efficient movement of people and property.