Department of Public Works
Engineering Division - FAQ'sSidewalk repair applications are available at the Department of Public Works. This office maintains a database of these applications. This Department has limited funds and manpower to address only the most severe problems. When funds are available through the Neighborhood Bond program, your councilperson is given a copy of the database listing applications in his/her ward and a contract issued to repair sidewalks as directed by the councilperson.
The City will repair your driveway opening only if the City is replacing the sidewalk, if not, you will have to replace the driveway opening at your own expense.
A permit is required for a curb cut. The fee is $50.00. To obtain a permit you will need to provide a sketch showing the location on your lot, as well as, utility poles, catch basins, or other physical items that may affect the work. A driveway permit is also required from the Department of Inspection and Standards. Only one driveway is allowed by the Zoning Ordinances for each lot. The exception is houses on corner lots may have a second driveway on the side street. If sidewalk at your property is being repaired by the City under the Neighborhood Bond program, the City will perform the work. The property owner is still responsible for obtaining a permit and paying the fee.
Sewer permits can be obtained at the Engineering Division at the Department of Public Works. Sewer permits cost $50.00. They must be signed by the drainlayer who is licensed with the City of Providence or a master plumber. If opening the road is required, you will also need a right-of-way opening permit, which will cost an additional $75.00. All checks should be made out to the Providence City Collector. Sewer Permit and Owner’s Authorization
Before a building permit is issued for new construction, a Letter of Approval must be issued by the Department of Public Works. To receive a letter of approval, the owner or general contractor must provide the Engineering Division at the Department of Public Works three (3) original stamped copies of the site plan of the proposed structure with all utility connections and building setbacks and locations of driveways. All site plans must include the following information listed in this document. Once approved 2 copies will be given to the owner to obtain a building permit from Department of Inspection and Standards.
By the request of the applicant, the Engineering Division at the Department of Public Works will perform a visual inspection to ensure that all work in the public right of way is complete. We will also check that all pertinent permits (sewer, curb cut, street opening etc) have been issued.
Street line information is provided in the Engineering Division at the Department of Public Works. To obtain this information, you must personally come to our office.
Sidewalk Contractor’s Bond for $100,000.00
Not Less than $500,000.00 Certificate of Liability
$100.00 check payable to the Providence City Collector.
1) Call the Department of Inspection & Standards -Plumber’s Division at 401-421-7740 ext. 363 to schedule test
2) Pay the Department of Inspection & Standards-Plumber’s Division $60.00 and bring paid receipt to the Department of Public Works.
- Obtain a sidewalk License (See Above)
3) License Term is one calendar year
- Submit $60.00 receipt to DPW Engineering and copy of $1,000,000.00 Certificate of Insurance and $5,000.00 Drain Layer’s Bond and cash or check payable to Providence City Collector for $10.00.
WE DO NOT SEND OUT RENEWAL NOTICE
4) Drain Layers must renew their license each year at the Department of Inspection and Standards
Department of Public Works Information & Hours
700 Allens Avenue,
Providence, RI 02905
Phone: (401) 467-7950
Hearing Impaired: TDD 831-4327
Illegal Dumping Hotline: 941-3478
Environmental Enforcement: 467-7950
Hours
Monday thru Friday 8:30am to 4:30pm
Summer Hours
Monday thru Friday 8:30am to 4:00pm
