Southaven, MS Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Encroachment Permits (2026)

Right-of-way work in the City of Southaven is governed by Title XI, Chapter 2, Utility Installations. Section 11-31 sets the reach of the chapter: all modifications, installations or use of public rights-of-way of any city street must conform to its rules. Section 11-32 then requires the individual or company that wants to do the work to submit an application and be granted a permit before the work is commenced, on forms provided by the city. Under § 11-33, permit fees in amounts established by the mayor are charged and collected, and performance bonds are posted, before any permit issues.

The permit does not create property rights. Section 11-36 states that the city does not purport, by issuing a utility permit, to grant the applicant any right, title, claim or easement on the street. Under § 11-35 the city can require and compel reconstruction or relocation of any line, pole or appurtenance within the right-of-way when the governing authority deems it necessary for repair, maintenance, widening or reconstruction, at the expense of the applicant.

Restoration is a condition of the permit. Section 11-34 requires street cuts and underground installations to be repaired, and streets, curb and gutter, drainage facilities, driveways, sidewalks and other property to be restored to the standards and specifications prepared by the city engineer. The permit holder maintains the repair for one year, and the city calls the bond if repairs are refused or prove inadequate within one year of final inspection approval. Section 11-37 voids a permit if all work is not completed within one year after issuance. Section 11-38 makes the permit holder responsible for safeguarding traffic: the police chief must be told of any work that will block or delay traffic and can prohibit blockages during heavy traffic hours, and signs, caution lights and flagmen follow the city engineer's specifications. The city engineering office administers the chapter (§ 11-41).

Small cell wireless facilities on the right-of-way follow a separate permit in § 11-42, reviewed by the director of planning, with a $500 non-recurring application fee for up to five facilities.