Encroachment Permits

Encroachment Permit Requirements

Encroachment Permits are required any time a person wishes to encroach upon a city right-of-way (sidewalk or street). For example, an encroachment permit would be required for events including, but not limited to:

• Sidewalk, curb and gutter installation or repair;
• Closing parking spaces for specific uses;
• Driveway installation;
• Trenching in a city street;
• Sidewalk sales;
• Oversize Loads
• Power-washing and/or painting a building where you need to put up ladders or scaffolding on the sidewalk;
• Window washing where you need to put up scaffolding on the sidewalk;
• Special events such as parades, car shows, farmers' market, etc. which require closing of a city street.

Sidewalk Responsibility

Pursuant to Fort Bragg Municipal Code section 12.04.170, owners of lots fronting on any portion of a public street are responsible for maintaining the sidewalk so that the sidewalk will not endanger persons or property. If your sidewalk is in need of repair, please contact the city to obtain an encroachment permit and building permit prior to doing any repairs.

Encroachment Permit Process - How to Apply 

Online Permitting Services

Applicants may complete the encroachment permit process electronically without visiting City Hall via the Accela Citizen Access portal.

Through the portal, you can:

• Submit encroachment permit applications and required documents

• Pay applicable fees online

• Track application status from submittal through approval

Apply Manually (Paper)

Download the Encroachment Permit Application Here.  Completed paper applications and required documents should be submitted directly to the Engineering Department at City Hall.

General Requirements & Additional Steps

1. Street Closures: If your project involves closing a street, you must also complete the Encroachment Permit Application Supplemental and obtain signatures from all adjacent property owners.
2. Insurance & Processing: Return completed forms to the Engineering Department with proof of liability insurance listing the City as an additional insured by policy endorsement (see Sample Insurance Requirements). Please allow 1–2 weeks for processing.
3. Fees: Pay the appropriate fee upon submittal. City staff can assist in calculating fees, or you can review the fee schedule under Public Works fees.
4. Special Events: Submit a Limited Term Permit Application to Community Development with an Event Timeline. A meeting with the Technical Advisory Committee may be required.
5. Construction Projects: The Engineering Department will review the application and apply special conditions. You must call for an inspection once the site is blocked off and before beginning work.

Annual Encroachment Permits

 An annual encroachment permit is required for the following types of work in the city right of way:

• Installation / Maintenance of Signs
• Installation of Window Glass
• Window Washing
• Minor Painting Jobs (1 day or less in duration and do not require the erection of scaffolding).

Annual Encroachment Permit

Other Permits

In addition to the city's Encroachment Permit process there are also processes for obtaining permits for placement of flowerpots or street furniture on city sidewalks. The applications forms are below; general provisions can be found on page 2 of the forms.