Plymouth, MN Sidewalk & Pedestrian Rules: Obstruction Rules (2026)

02, Subd. 2 of the Plymouth City Code defines an obstruction as placing or removing any object in a public right-of-way, or removing an existing structure from it, in a way that interferes with the right-of-way's free use. Subd. A makes clear that, except where the Code otherwise allows, no person may obstruct or excavate any right-of-way, or install facilities, equipment or improvements above, on or beneath its surface, without first obtaining the appropriate permit from the City. The same subdivision separately makes it unlawful to dig up, break, excavate, tunnel, trench, drill, bore or undermine a street, or to place or leave earth, excavated material or other substances that obstruct or interfere with the street's free use, without a permit.

An obstruction permit application must identify the applicant and local representative, name anyone else who will perform the work, carry proof of insurance, and include a to-scale drawing of the proposed obstruction and its schedule, subject to City Engineer review under the Minnesota Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. The City may deny a permit for reasons listed in Subd. C, including an incomplete application, a conflict with a scheduled community event or public improvement project, a Code violation, or a threat to public safety weighed against factors like available right-of-way space and the applicant's compliance history.

Registered right-of-way users who already control a facility in the right-of-way must still obtain a permit before any later excavation or obstruction. Certain routine activities, such as boulevard gardening, private driveway or sidewalk installation, snow removal, and government agency work, are exempted from registration or permit requirements under Subd. C.