Tim Pelotte, Field Technician, Region 2Mike Moreau, Utility Engineer

Utility Permitting Overview

Utility Accommodation

Maine Statutes (Title 35-A Chapter 23) authorize the use of highway corridors for various forms of utility accommodation.

Such accommodation is subject to the conditions and restrictions of the “Applicable Licensing Authority”.

Permitting Jurisdiction

MaineDOT, as a designated “Licensing Authority”, issues “Utility Permits” in the following areas:

•All State Highways outside of compact areas•All State-Aid Highways outside of compact areas•All controlled-access areas on state or state-aid highways, regardless of the compact limits•All state owned or maintained bridges, regardless of the compact limits

Utility Permits

Location Permits – Provides legal authorization to locate a facility in a specific location within a highway corridor. Applications are typically submitted in the late planning or early design phase. Typically no cost.

Highway Opening Permits – Provides authorization to enter upon and excavate within the highway corridor. Applications are typically submitted in the late design or pre-construction phase. A 10% fee, based on the area impacted, is applicable. Larger projects will typically require an escrow.

Governing Documents

• Utility Accommodation Rule (17-229 CMR Chapter 210)

• MaineDOT Highway Opening Policy

• MaineDOT Standard Specifications

Basic Accommodation Rules for Underground Utilities

- All facilities constructed within the highway corridor must be permitted

- Depth: 3 feet minimum- Horizontal Clearance: 3 feet minimum - Vertical Clearance: 1 foot minimum - Coordination with adjacent existing utilities for

new utility construction is required. - A Dig Safe™ call is NOT coordination.

Typical Application Requirements

• Signed Application Form• General Location Map• Specific Location Plan(s)• Traffic Control Plan(s)• Documentation of Utility Coordination

MaineDOT’s Web Site

Web Site Resources

Field Coordination