Frequently Asked Questions

• Any time you plan to locate facilities within the highway right-of-way
• New installations
• Upgrades (example – overhead changed to underground)
• Maintenance
• Covered under original permit and requires 48-hour notification, unless it’s an emergency repair
• Must be the same size, location and install methods
• Pole replacement as long as
  • Facility is not being upgraded
  • Pole is placed within 1 foot of original location

• Not less than 30 days prior to expected installation or work
• DOT has 30 days to return the permit, provided that
  • Correct and accurate format
  • Pole is placed within 1 foot of original location
  • With all attachments
  • With all required prior approvals
• FHWA approvals are acquired after submission to DOT
  • Are allowed to exceed the 30-day timeframe

*Allow more lead time for large installs and complicated installs

Most common causes of delays are because the permit:

• Is sent to the wrong DOT office
• Is incorrectly formatted
• Includes inaccurate or missing information
• Does not include sufficient number of copies of site plans/ attachment

The citizens of Iowa have come to expect the road system to act as not only a transportation corridor for passengers and freight but also services, including utilities. By placing utilities in the highway right-of-way the utility providers are able to avoid the purchase of costly utility easements. This savings translates into lower rates to their customers who are also the taxpayers who pay for the highway right-of-way to begin with. It is simply the most prudent use of the taxpayer's investment.

To provide for the reasonable accommodation of utility facilities on highway rights-of-way. The Iowa Department of Transportation has taken the position that safety is the most important issue when utility accommodation is considered. The utility facility must provide for the safety of not only the traveling public but for the utility workers and highway maintenance crews as well. Additionally, the Iowa DOT works to preserve the state's investment in the highway system by insuring the utility facility does not damage the roadway structure directly or adversely affect the future development of the highway as a transportation corridor.

Yes, permits are required for the safety and welfare of all involved. Permit applications are required by the Iowa Code section 318.8 before making any physical change within the highway rights-of-way. This includes activities like cutting trees, cutting the backslope, constructing entrances, harvesting grasses, etc.

We would suggest that you contact one of the District Offices and request assistance.