Utility or Service Cut Permit

A Utility/Service Cut permit is required for any work involving cutting, trenching, or digging within the public right-of-way (including streets, sidewalks, grass strips, or alleys). This permit ensures all work is coordinated with the City of New Orleans, nearby utilities, and that it meets safety and restoration standards. 

Who Can Apply? 

Property owners, contractors, or utility companies authorized to perform work in the public right-of-way. 

Fees 

• Application Fee: $40 (non-refundable)  
• Street Cut Fees (per square foot): 
  • 1st year after street maintenance – $1.20 
  • 2nd year – $1.00 
  • 3rd year – $0.90 
  • 4th year – $0.70 
  • 5th year – $0.60 
• Deposit: Based on surface type: 
  • Concrete street – $17.50 per sq. ft. 
  • Asphalt street – $11.00 per sq. ft. 
  • Gravel/Temporary street – $9.00 per sq. ft. 
  • Sidewalk – $4.50 per sq. ft. 
  • Grass/Dirt – $2.50 per sq. ft.

Reminder: If a concrete panel is cut, the entire panel must be replaced. 

Pre-Application Checklist 

Before you apply, confirm you have: 

• Completed Utility/Service Cut Permit Application  (signed by SWBNO) 
• Scale drawings (to be uploaded during the OneStop application process)  
• Utility companies only: Proof of franchise agreement (if installing fiber optic cable) 
• Fee payment ($40) and deposit funds 
• Plan to post a laminated permit on site during construction 
• Contact information for scheduling pre-pour and post-pour inspections 

Tip: Incomplete or missing documents will delay review and permitting.

Required Documents 

When applying, you must include: 

• Completed Utility/Service Cut Permit Application (must be signed by the Sewerage & Water Board of New Orleans) 
  • Scale drawings (electronic copy) showing: 
    • Street names, curbs, catch basins, sidewalks, curb cuts, poles, drainage inlets and other features 
    • Dimensions and location of the proposed cut
  • Franchise agreement from the utility company (if installing fiber optic cable) 
  • Any required approvals (e.g., Sewerage & Water Board, Parks & Parkways, Vieux Carré Commission)

Steps to Apply 

1. Site Check – Review the site to identify conflicts such as trees, drainage, or existing utilities. 

2. Louisiana One Call (811) before excavation. 

   • Phone: 1-800-272-3020 or 811 

   • Required for Delta Gas, Entergy Electric, LP&L Electric (Algiers), AT&T, Cox Communications, and other utilities. 

3. Prepare Drawings – Include all adjacent features and dimensions. 

   • Drawings must clearly show all elements in the area to be cut (streets, sidewalks, poles, drainage inlets, grass, etc.). 

4. Complete Application – File online through the OneStop website or at City Hall. 

   • Include the following forms: ​

     • Utility/Service Cut Permit Application (signed by SWBNO) 

     • Scale drawings (electronic copy) 

5. Pay Fees & Deposit – Once your application is reviewed, DPW will notify you of the total fee, required deposit, and earliest date the permit can be issued. 

6. Permit Issued – You’ll receive an official permit with conditions and inspection requirements. 

   • The permit holder must provide copies of the approved permit and drawings to all relevant agencies. 

   • A laminated, water-resistant copy of the permit must be posted at each trench during construction 

7. During Construction – Schedule pre-pour inspections before placing concrete or asphalt. 

   • Contact DPW (contact provided upon issuance) to schedule inspections. 

8. Final Inspection – Request a post-pour inspection after work completion. 

   • 90% of the deposit is returnable after one year (asphalt) or five years (concrete). 

Special Provisions 

• Permit is valid for 90 days (30 days in French Quarter). Extensions may be requested in 90-day increments.  
• Any changes to the scope of work after permit issuance must be approved by the Sewerage & Water Board and the Department of Public Works.  
• Permit holder is responsible for all damages caused by the work. 
• All restoration materials must meet DPW specifications. 

You May Also Need  

• Vieux Carre Commission approval (if the work is in the French Quarter) 
• Construction Zone Permit (if sidewalk, parking, or travel lanes will be closed) 

Additional Resources 

• Utility/Service Cut Permit Application  
• City of New Orleans Standard Drawings Website