City of Cedar Rapids

 NOTICE: Permit Applications Move Online

GETTING STARTED

• Step 1: Visit my.cedar-rapids.org/Account/Login and click “Sign Up” to create an account
• Step 2 (contractors only): Email a request to rightofwaypermit@cedar-rapids.org to activate your registration.

APPLY FOR A PERMIT
Once you’ve created an account, follow these simple steps to apply for a permit.

• Step 1: Log in at my.cedar-rapids.org/Account/Login
• Step 2: Click on the Right-of-Way PERMIT icon
• Step 3: Follow the system prompts!

Working in the Right-of-Way
For street tree planting and permit: Replanting in the ROW | Trees

A permit is required before working in the public right-of-way (construction, digging, or boring). Beginning work without an approved permit will result in a penalty.

Examples of common projects that require a permit include:

• Driveway improvements or sidewalk repairs
• Installation of mailbox posts
• Utility work, such as connecting sump hoses to storm sewer lines
• Street tree planting (find the permit application and learn more here)
• *When emergency excavation is necessary, a permit application shall be submitted no later than the next business day of when the work was performed

Contractor FAQS

General FAQs

The City of Cedar Rapids has moved to an online Right-of-Way (ROW) permit system on July 19, 2021. Customers are required to create a free account to submit ROW permit applications. The goal is to increase transparency between the City and its customers, as well as increase efficiency in the permit process. 

If your activity involves blocking or impeding foot or vehicle traffic in the right-of-way, you are required to obtain a Right-of-Way Obstruction Permit. Submit the Obstruction application before obstructing the ROW.

GETTING STARTED

• Step 1: Visit my.cedar-rapids.org/Account/Login and click “Sign Up” to create an account

APPLY FOR A PERMIT
Once you’ve created an account, follow these simple steps to apply for a permit.

• Step 1: Log in at my.cedar-rapids.org/Account/Login
• Step 2: Click on the Right-of-Way PERMIT icon
• Step 3: Follow the system prompts!

Download Step-by-Step Flyer.

Permit Fees

• $50 permit fee for sidewalk  and/or driveway per address
• $50 permit fee for each service line
• $50 permit fee for obstruction per address
• $20 permit fee for minor excavation per address
• $75 fee for removing or cutting City pavement
• $75 per 1,300 lineal feet of fiber optic cable installation 
• Permit fees for planting trees in the public right-of-way have been waived to support replanting efforts following the derecho. Learn more.

Resources

What is the Right-of-Way?
The public right-of-way (ROW) is land that is owned by the City but maintained by the property owner. It includes City streets and alleys and the grassy portion of land between the curb and property line. The right-of-way is reserved for passage and public infrastructure including traffic signs, utilities, street lights, sidewalks, and snow storage.

Right-of-Way Permits
A permit is required for either obstructing right-of-way or working in the right-of-way. Applications are typically reviewed and permits issued within 3 business days if no revisions are required. The issued permit must be present at the site. Failure to produce a permit will result in immediate stop work action.

Utility Installation in Paved Roadways

• Utility Installation in Paved Roadways Detail
• Advisory for Consultants

• Right of Way Site Plan Creation 
• Bond Example 
• Direct Access Driveway Construction 
• Temporary Traffic Control Standards 
• Section 9 of the Cedar Rapids Municipal Code 
• Post-Boring Televising Requirements and Procedures
• Post-Boring Information 
• Doing Business
• Water Standby for Construction

Additional Right-of-Way Policies

• Small Wireless Facilities

2022 Spring Contractor Meeting 
The City of Cedar Rapids is committed to providing you with the information you need as you prepare work on projects, including the latest updates to City processes and policies. Visit THIS PAGE for information updates.