Farmington Hills, MI Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)

Under City Code Sec. 26-27, no one may place an article, thing, or obstruction in a street or public right-of-way without a right-of-way permit issued under Sec. 26-28(d), except for temporary loading/unloading obstructions incidental to moving goods to and from abutting property, lawful vehicle parking within the part of the street reserved for traffic, and city-authorized tree/shrub plantings or other installations. Section 26-28 sets the permitting mechanics: applications go to the director of public services on the director's prescribed forms, with a fee set by council resolution, and the permit is revocable for noncompliance with the article or the director's lawful orders.

It is valid only for the period endorsed on its face. Applying for the permit is treated as the applicant's agreement to promptly complete the permitted work, follow all pertinent city laws, repair any damage to the street surface and to other street installations including trees, and hold the city harmless from resulting injury or property-damage claims. Where liability insurance is required, the amount is set by council resolution and a copy must be filed with the city clerk. Where a cash deposit is required, it covers city expenses tied to the permitted work; any unspent balance is refunded six months after completion, and if the deposit falls short the applicant pays the deficit.

Subsection (e) makes clear the city can require its own permit even where the street or right-of-way is also under county, state, or federal jurisdiction.