Utility Trench

To dig a utility trench in the right-of-way of San Mateo County's unincorporated districts requires an encroachment permit from the Department of Public Works.

Permit Fees

  • Behind walkways, paths, sidewalks - $138
  • For minor trenches (eg: pothole, digouts) in the travel way - $415
  • For a major trenches (eg: linear work which is wider than the Right of Way width) up to 100 feet total length - $2076
  • For a major trenches greater than 100 feet - $2076 +0.50/foot of trench

Documents

Utility Trench Standard Drawings

Encroachment Permit Checklist for Utility Trench