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

Sec. 25-100(a) makes clear that, except where the Code says otherwise, no one may construct in any right-of-way without first getting a permit from the office of the city engineer. That baseline applies broadly, covering anyone placing facilities, structures or obstructions in the public right-of-way, not only utility companies. A special notice process applies to median conversions: turning a landscaped median within the city's jurisdiction into a parking area or travel lane cannot be permitted until the city's property and right-of-way committee reviews the request at a public meeting and the city commission approves it, with mailed notice to property owners within 300 feet of the median at least 10 days beforehand and posted signs at least 15 days beforehand.

Once issued, a permit only authorizes construction in the specific part of the right-of-way it describes, for the dates it specifies; Sec. 25-100(c) makes clear that going beyond either the described area or the permitted dates requires the city engineer to modify the permit. Sec. 25-102(b) backs this up directly: outside an emergency, it is unlawful to construct in the right-of-way without a permit at all. Applicants must be registered with the city engineer's office and show they owe the city no outstanding debt before a permit can issue, under Sec.

25-100(g). Permits must stay posted at the work site for inspection, and the city engineer can revoke a permit for a substantial breach under Sec. 25-111, including working outside the permitted area or dates, without refunding fees paid.