Right of Way Opening Permit Application

Overview

This document is a permit application form issued by the City of Altoona Public Works Department. It is used to request permission for opening a right-of-way (typically for construction, utility work, or excavation). The form requires the applicant to provide contact details, project specifics, and proof of insurance.

Application Instructions

• Submission: Completed forms must be printed, signed, and either emailed to socker@altoonapa. gov or submitted in person to the Public Works Department at City Hall (3rd floor).
• Required Attachments: Applicants must include a sketch or plan of the work area, the applicable fee (per City Council resolution), and a Certificate of Liability Insurance.
• Street Closures: If the work involves closing any part of the right-of-way, a separate Street Closure Permit Application is required.

Required Information

The form requests the following details:

• Applicant Info: Name, street address, city, state, zip, phone numbers, and email.
• Work Site Info: Specific location of the opening, a description of the work, and the dates (from/to) the work will occur.

Regulatory Requirements

The application outlines strict rules that must be followed during the project:

• Utility Notification: The Pennsylvania One Call System must be contacted before any excavation begins (online at https://www. pa1call. org/ or by calling 811).
• Traffic Control: Traffic control measures must be enforced at all times, adhering to the Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD) and PennDOT Publications 212 and 213.
• Environmental Controls: Contractors must use approved Best Management Practices (BMPs) for erosion and sedimentation. No sludge or waste may enter the storm water system.

Insurance Requirements (Attachment "A")

Contractors must carry specific insurance coverage for the life of the contract. Key requirements include:

• Workmen’s Compensation: Mandatory for all employees and subcontractors.
• Public Liability & Property Damage: Minimum limits of $1,000,000 per person/accident and aggregate.
• Automobile Liability: Minimum limits of $1,000,000 for bodily injury and property damage.
• Umbrella Excess Liability: A minimum limit of $2,000,000 per occurrence.
• Blasting: Blasting coverage is not permitted.
• City Protection: The City of Altoona must be named as an additional insured on all policies.