Public Works Forms & Permits

Permits Required

The City of Richland Center requires permits for driveway construction and sidewalk installation on or near public streets. These permits help ensure safe access, maintain public infrastructure, and comply with City Ordinances.

1. Driveway Permit

   • ​​​​​When Required: before constructing, reconstructing, altering, or enlarging any driveway that connects to a City street, crosses a sidewalk or curb, or changes access to public roadways.

   • Application Process: 

     • The property owner or their contractor submits a Driveway Permit Application to the Director of Public Works or Clerk's Office. Applications can also be emailed to publicworks@richlandcenterwi.gov.

     • The application must include:

       • A site drawing showing the driveway location, dimensions, and materials

       • Details about adjacent streets, property lines, and any existing or proposed structures

       • $20 permit fee - unless the project is part of a new building permit

   • Review of your Application: The Director of Public Works will review the application to ensure compliance with City standards regulated by Municipal Code Chapter 615. Once approved, the permit is issued and the property owner or contractor may proceed with construction, following all conditions listed in the permit.

2. Dumpster Permit

   • When Required: dumpster or roll-off container placed on public right-of-way (e.g., streets or sidewalks). This helps ensure proper placement, safety, and limited disruption to traffic or pedestrian flow.

   • Application Process: Submit a Dumpster Permit Application form to the City Clerk's Office along with the $10 fee.

   • Review Process: The Richland Center Police Department and the City Public Works Department will review the request to ensure dumpster location is in compliance with Municipal Code Chapter 391 | Ordinance No. 2001-20.

     • Please note: although every effort is made to issue permits in a timely manner, please allow several days prior to dumpster placement to allow a full review of the application prior to issuance.

   • All Dumpster Permits are issued on a one week (7 days) basis.

3. Road Right of Way Street Cut Permit

   • ​​​​​When Required: Any person, contractor, or utility wishing to excavate, dig, or place an obstruction in a public street, alley, or right-of-way must submit a Street Opening Permit Application before work begins.

   • Application Process: ​​​​​​​​​​​​​​The property owner or their contractor submits a Driveway Permit Application to the Director of Public Works or Clerk's Office. Applications can also be emailed to publicworks@richlandcenterwi.gov.

     • The application must include:

       • A description of the proposed work

       • Location and dimensions of the opening

       • Anticipated start and completion dates

       • Traffic control plan and restoration details

       • Proof of liability insurance

       • Cash bond or irrevocable letter of credit (held for two years to ensure restoration)

       • $20 Permit fee per area, run, pedistal, handhole, and opening

     • Review of Appliaction: The Director of Public Works will review the application to ensure compliance with City standards regulated by Municipal Code Chapter 604. Once approved, the permittee is responsible to:

       • Follow all safety standards, including signage and barriers according to the Wisconsin Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices

       • Keep at least one traffic lane open at all times unless a detour is approved

       • Protect underground utilities and notify Diggers Hotline

       • Ensure proper backfilling and pavement restoration

       • Maintain the repaired area for two years after completion

       • Notify the City when the work is finished for final inspection

4. Sidewalk Permit

   • ​​​​​​​When Required: A sidewalk installation permit is required for:

     • ​​​​​​​New sidewalk installations exceeding 60 square feet, or

     • Any work replacing sidewalks across the full frontage of a property.

     • Minor sidewalk repairs under 60 square feet do not require a permit.

   • Application Process: The property owner or contractor must submit a Sidewalk Installation Permit Application to the Director of Public Works at least 5 business days before work begins. The application must include:

     • Property owner’s name and address

     • Contractor’s name and contact info

     • Location of the sidewalk work

     • Estimated square footage of sidewalk to be installed or replaced

     • $20 permit fee

   • Review of your Application: The Director of Public Works​​​​​​​ will review the application to ensure compliance with City standards regulated by Municipal Code Chapter 620. Once approved, the permit is issued and the property owner or contractor may proceed with installation or repair according to the approved plan.

General Notes for Contractors & Residents

• All work must comply with the City's standard specifications for driveways, sidewalks, and curb & gutter.

• Contractors must dispose of debris properly and are responsible for restoring adjacent lawns or boulevards.

• The City reserves the right to make repairs or alterations in the public right-of-way at any time.