Apply for a Work in Public Right-of-Way Permit

Road closed sign on dirt roadIf you want to work in the City of Salem public right-of-way, you must obtain an approved work in the right-of-way permit from the Public Works Planning and Development Division (SRC 77.090). Examples of work in the public right-of-way include staging vehicles in or closing a:

  • Alley
  • Lane
  • On-street parking space
  • Street
  • Sidewalk

Application Process

Be sure to check current road conditions for other projects in the area where you will be working.

You need to submit the following items to the Public Works Department at least three full business days before the planned closure:

  • A completed application form
  • The permit fee (If you are bringing cash or a check, please call to verify the fee amount before turning in the application.)
  • A drawing clearly detailing the planned traffic control including:

Proposed closure of a collector or arterial street may require a two-week notification prior to the planned closure. The Oregon Temporary Traffic Control Handbook (OTTCH) and Part 6 of the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) contain details necessary to close any portion of City right-of-way and will be helpful in the development of your traffic control plan.

The City Traffic Engineer, or their designee, reserves the right to deny or modify the submitted traffic control plan. Should a problem arise as a result of the approved traffic control, additional traffic control may be required at the permittee's expense.

Other Permits

In addition to obtaining a work in right-of-way permit, other permits may be required, including the following:

  • Parking Permit: For parking use or parking removal associated with traffic control
  • Street Opening: For any work that disturbs the ground or installation of something in the ground

Traffic Control Drawing Templates

The resources below include generic traffic control templates and other information you may use to fill out, modify, and create the traffic control plan required to obtain a closure permit. The generic plans will work for many situations, but a site-specific plan may be required.