Driveway Permits 101: Do You Own Your Driveway?
The Land Up Learning Series
Ever thought about making changes to your driveway - like making it wider, longer, or even tearing it up completely and starting over?
You may be surprised to learn that a permit is required for any new driveway or a significant modification to an existing driveway. In some cases when buying a new property, you may be even more surprised to learn that you don’t even own that piece of concrete you plan to drive up and down everyday!
Before any new property purchase, it’s important to know what a driveway permit is - and make sure you can make the changes you need, if that’s what you’re planning to do.
What is a Driveway Permit
A driveway permit is a document that allows landowners and contractors to construct or make changes to a driveway on private property. These permits are issued by local municipalities and are typically required when building a new driveway or making significant changes to an existing one.
Why Do I Need a Driveway Permit
While this may just sound like another thing to do on your ever-growing list, there are several reasons why a driveway permit is necessary - and why you should be sure not to overlook this part of the process.
First and foremost, it ensures that the construction of the driveway meets all local building codes and safety regulations. This helps to protect the landowner and surrounding community from potential hazards and ensures that the driveway is built to last.
In addition to safety, a driveway permit also helps protect the aesthetic of the neighborhood. Many municipalities have strict guidelines in place for driveway construction, including materials, slope, and location, to ensure that the driveway blends in with the surrounding neighborhood and does not negatively impact property values.
And finally, if you’re looking to purchase a piece of real estate, make sure you double check the driveway permits on the property because some sellers may not have full access to the property.
What are the Requirements for a Driveway Permit
The requirements for a driveway permit vary depending on the location and jurisdiction. The specific requirements for a permit may include:
Property ownership or a signed contract for the property
A site plan or survey of the property showing the proposed driveway location and dimensions
Any necessary zoning or building code approvals
Payment of any permit fees
A drainage plan or erosion control plan if required by the jurisdiction
It is best to check with your local government and zoning authority for the specific requirements in your area.
How to Get a Driveway Permit
Obtaining a driveway permit is typically a straightforward process. Landowners or contractors will need to submit a permit application, along with any necessary drawings or plans, to the local building department. The application will then be reviewed by a building inspector to ensure it meets all local codes and regulations. Once approved, the permit will be issued, and construction can begin.
It's important to note that failure to obtain a driveway permit or continuing on after a driveway permit denial can result in hefty fines and even legal action. It's also important to keep in mind that the cost of obtaining a permit varies depending on the municipality and the scope of the project.
Who Can Help Me With My Driveway Permit
As mentioned, it’s important to work with your local government and zoning authority to ensure everything checks out and you are following the correct steps.
We understand that every property is different, and sometimes figuring out permitting for your potential purchase - for driveways or beyond - can be a confusing process. When you work with a Land Up Realtor, we are experts in the Central Texas area and help walk you through the process - and make sure all your boxes are checked for your new purchase.