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

City Code § 22-60 makes it unlawful for any person, utility, government agency, or contractor to excavate, dig, blast, tunnel, or place facilities, structures, or objects such as utility lines, telecommunication cables, and culverts within a public street, alley, or right-of-way without first applying for and obtaining a written permit from the city. The same permit-first rule applies separately to constructing, repairing, or installing any driveway, curb, sidewalk, or culvert in the right-of-way. Applicants must submit plan and profile drawings identifying potential utility conflicts during the design stage, and the city transportation engineer within the PDD department may require a money deposit sufficient to cover repair or restoration costs before issuing the permit.

Before construction begins, the applicant must notify the statewide one-call system not less than 48 hours nor more than five days in advance, unless the work is documented as an emergency involving public health, safety, or welfare. Permittees must restore the right-of-way to its previous condition and are responsible for locating and protecting underground facilities, repairing at their own expense any they damage. Narrow exceptions exist for small tree/shrub plantings under 24 inches in diameter and for routine utility service-connection repairs by work crews, but general excavation, driveway, curb, and sidewalk work in the right-of-way always requires the written permit.

The city may revoke a permit under § 22-67 for reasons including work performed without required supervision, false statements on the application, or nonpayment of fees.