Engineering manages permitting for street cuts and other construction work within the public right-of-way (ROW) in accordance with Chapter 17C of the Code of Ordinances.
Annual general permit (AGP)
An annual general permit (AGP) means a permit issued annually by the division to perform the activities described in Sec. 17C-3 – Definitions. It does not cover any surface cut operations.
Registered utilities are allowed to perform specific types of work under their annual general permit (AGP) as specified in Chapter 17C of the Code of Ordinances. The ROW is typically from the property line on one side of the street, through the street and to the property line on the opposite side. Often the property line is on the property owner's side of the sidewalk or the face of a building next to the sidewalk.
In order to submit AGP notifications, you must be a registered utility and pay the annual general permit fee for your company.
Any proposed work in a “high-density area” may not be submitted as an AGP notification and must be submitted as a surface cut or installation permit.
There is no cost for an AGP notification.
Surface cut and installation permits
A surface cut permit means a permit issued by the division to excavate, dig or cut into and through a paved street surface within the rights-of-way to bore, dig or tunnel under such a paved street surface except as authorized by an annual general permit.
An installation permit means a permit issued by the division to perform any construction, installation, repair, replacement or maintenance of facilities in the right-of-way that is not covered by an annual general permit of a surface cut permit.
Registered utilities must apply for a surface cut or installation permit to perform any type of work in public rights-of-way not covered by the annual general permit.
If you are a small contractor or homeowner (that is not a registered utility) that will be performing work in the public right-of-way, contact John Cassel at jcassel@lexingtonky.gov or (859) 258-3984, and we will guide and assist you with your permit.
Surface cut permits cost $250, and installation permits cost $100.
Apply for a permit
The Elements program works best with the Google Chrome web browser.
Note: If this is your first time applying for a ROW permit, you will be asked to create an account before you can apply for a permit.
Technical support
If you need technical support for the permitting page or are experiencing problems with this site, contact Computer Services by email or by calling (859) 258-3730.
If you have questions about working in the right-of-way, the registration process or the permitting process, contact us by email or by calling (859) 258-3984.
Utility permitting map
This map must be viewed in fullscreen mode. This graphic shows a zoomed-in view of part of the map. Click the link then you zoom in on a street with your mouse or use the search icon next to the legend block.
