Leominster, MA Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)

Section 20-16 requires anyone who wants to break or dig up the ground or pavement of a public street, sidewalk or square, erect staging for building work, or place materials, equipment or rubbish there to first obtain a written permit from the director of public works. The permit fixes the exact space that may be occupied, how long the occupancy may last, and any other conditions the director adds, and the applicant must also file a written agreement under seal agreeing to comply with the permit and to indemnify the city against any loss, cost or expense from the occupancy.

c. 149, § 148, and the director cannot issue a new permit to an applicant the chief of police has found in violation of that wage requirement for one year unless the applicant posts a bond equal to the detail's total wages. Section 20-17 separately governs underground structures: anyone who wants to construct or maintain an area or vault for light and air, or for storing coal, merchandise or other articles, beneath a street or sidewalk surface needs its own written permit from the director, who sets conditions on the vault's dimensions, location, materials and construction method for public safety, and every such vault is capped at one half the width of the sidewalk above it.

Cash security of fifteen thousand dollars is separately required under § 20-18 for any private utility connection into a public utility trench, held for a two-year guarantee period.