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Part of Roadside development

Permits for utility line installation by a provincial highway

Requirements for telecommunications, electrical or pipeline construction or modifications within the permit area of a provincial highway.

Overview

A permit is required to install utility lines within the permitting area of a provincial highway. Public roads other than provincial highways are managed by municipalities.

Construction cannot take place without a valid permit.

Guidelines

The highway permit area for utility line installation varies depending on the highway classification:

Highway classificationPermit area
Freeways115 m from the centreline or 30 metres beyond the limit of the freeway, whichever is greater
Multi-lane highways and major 2-lane highways60 m from the centreline or 30 m beyond the limit of the highway, whichever is greater
Minor 2-lane highway50 metres from the centreline or 30 m beyond the limit of the highway, whichever is greater

Installation procedures

Applicants should follow the following procedures for application and installation:

How to apply

Step 1. Consultation

The Alberta government may have plans to upgrade a provincial highway. Applicants should consult with us early in their planning process.

Step 2. Submit the application

Submit the application through the RPATH Portal.

It may take up to 30 business days for your application to be processed.

During construction

Ensure the following takes place:

  • If lane closure or speed reduction is required, 511 Alberta must be notified at least 48 hours prior of the construction.
  • A copy of the permit and Traffic Accommodation Strategy is always available for verification at the construction site.
  • Only work covered by original permit is performed at the site.
  • Any additional work, variation or change from the approval covered by the original permit requires additional or amended approval.

After construction

Upon completion of work activities, it is important to ensure that:

  • all construction signs and materials are removed from the highway right-of-way
  • the work site is restored to its pre-construction condition
  • record drawings of the installation are submitted to the District Office

Contact

Connect with the district office for assistance on roadside development permits via RPATH Portal or Contact us.