Permits

Above Ground Occupancy Permits

An above ground occupancy permit is essential for entities wishing to install poles and aerial lines within the State right-of-way. This permit covers the placement of new poles, the rebuilding of existing pole lines, the installation of overhead lines that run longitudinally or cross over the right-of-way, and other actions that include work on the right-of-way which does not involve excavation. This permit ensures that all installations comply with INDOT standards, maintain safety, and minimize disruption to traffic.

Applicable Resources

• Public Permit Guide
• Utility Accommodation Policy (UAP)
• Law Enforcement Equipment Policy
• Additional Forms and Affidavits

Below Ground Occupancy Permits

An below ground occupancy permit is required for any excavation or grading activities performed on State right-of-way. This includes the installation or repair of underground pipelines, cables, grading for drainage, and the installation or repair of curbs and sidewalks. The permit ensures that all underground work adheres to INDOT standards and protects the integrity of the roadway and surrounding infrastructure.

Applicable Resources

• Public Permit Guide
• Utility Accommodation Policy (UAP)
• Weigh in Motion Policy
• Additional Forms and Affidavits

Broadband Access Permits

A Broadband Access Permit is required for projects related to the construction and placement of broadband infrastructure within State right-of-way. This includes the installation of fiber optic cables and related equipment necessary for high-speed internet services. The permit ensures that all installations comply with INDOT standards and do not disrupt existing infrastructure.

Applicable Resources

• Public Permit Guide
• Broadband Permit Guide
• Broadband Access Policy (BAP)
• Broadband Corridors
• Broadband Example Plans of Sufficient Detail
• Broadband Access Permit Applicant’s List
• Additional Forms and Affidavits
• Broadband Application Quick Guide

A driveway permit is necessary for connecting private property to INDOT-controlled roadways. This permit covers various types of driveways, including residential, commercial, and public road approaches. The application process ensures that all connections are safe, comply with INDOT standards, and facilitate smooth traffic flow.

Applicable Resources

• Public Permit Guide
• Driveway Permit Guide
• Limited Access Right-of-Way Break Guidance
• Private Approach Reference Worksheet
• Permit Applicant’s Guide to Traffic Impact Studies
• Additional Forms and Affidavits

A miscellaneous permit is required for activities on State right-of-way that do not fall under other specific permit types. This includes temporary banners, road closures for events, and public art installations. The application fee for this permit is $15, making it accessible for community-oriented projects.

Applicable Resources

• Public Permit Guide
• Agricultural Dragline Use of Cross Structures & Ditches on INDOT Right-of-Way
• Public Art & Landscaping Guidance
• Additional Forms and Affidavits

Railroad Permits

Railroad permits, while administered through Electronic Permit System (EPS), are not under the purview of the INDOT Permits Division. Railroad permits are processed by INDOT’s Utilities and Railroad Division. This type of permit is required when railroad companies are performing work that will require a road to be closed or traffic to be diverted on a State Road and/or Interstate. The following is required for this permit type:

• US Department of Transportation crossing number
• Plans for proposed work
• Maintenance of Traffic (MOT) plans
• Map of detour (Note: detour must stay on state roads)
• Minimum two weeks’ notice to INDOT, and subsequent approval by INDOT, before work may be started

Environmental Permits

INDOT environmental permits are not administered through EPS and are not under the purview of the INDOT Permits Division. For information regarding INDOT environmental permits, refer to the Environmental Services Division and the Ecology, Waterway Permitting, and Stormwater Office (EWPSO). Note: INDOT environmental permits are separate from permits issued by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management or other state agencies.

Emergency Permits

The emergency permit is specifically designed for urgent situations that require immediate action to protect life or property within the State right-of-way. An emergency is defined as a serious occurrence that develops suddenly and unexpectedly, necessitating swift intervention. When an emergency arises, the affected company, utility, or individual must promptly contact the appropriate INDOT District Office. If the emergency occurs outside of business hours, it must be reported at the beginning of the next business day. The application process includes filling out a Preliminary Application for Emergency Work Form, which serves as proof of permission to conduct necessary work in the right-of-way.

The emergency permit is issued at no cost as it serves as a temporary placeholder to allow immediate work during urgent situations. However, once the emergency work is completed, the applicant is required to apply for and pay the full fee for the appropriate regular permit (such as above ground occupancy, below ground occupancy, miscellaneous, etc.) based on the type of work performed. This regular application must be submitted via the Electronic Permit System (EPS) within five working days, along with a copy of the emergency form.