Merced, CA Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)

28, Excavations, is Merced's general permit for private work that disturbs a public street, alley, lane, court or place, covering laying water or gas pipe, boxes, flumes, conduit, or any other purpose whatsoever. 020 requires a written application to the city engineer on a city-furnished form describing the proposed ditch, trench, hole or other excavation. 030 requires the applicant to post a deposit sized to cover the estimated cost of surface replacement, inspection, and supervision; the finance officer calculates the actual cost after the work finishes and refunds any excess or bills any shortfall.

040 lets the city engineer also require a bond payable to the city guaranteeing compliance and covering repair failures discovered within one year of completion. 060 allows the engineer to waive the written application in an emergency, though the fee still applies and verbal authorization is required first. 070 requires the permittee to perform the work in a good and workmanlike manner, restore the area to its pre-work condition, and minimize inconvenience to the public. 080 lets the city give ten days' written notice and then finish the job itself, or through another contractor, and charge the cost back to the permittee.