Get a road occupancy permit
Get a road occupancy permit if your work will use, alter or block a city road, sidewalk, boulevard or trail.
On this page:
- Apply before work begins
- Pick up your permit
- Check permit fees
- Check your legal requirements
- If your project affects a regional road
Apply before work begins
Apply in advance to avoid fines or a stop-work order. Staff need time to review your request and confirm details.
Apply at least:
- 10 business days before a full road closure
- 5 business days before any lane closure
- 3 business days before work that does not close a lane or road
You’ll need to:
- download and complete the road occupancy permit application (PDF)
- submit your traffic control plan along with the permit application
- get an insurance certificate that names the City of Waterloo as “additionally insured”
Submit your application:
- by email: roads@waterloo.ca
- in person: Waterloo Service Centre
Staff will confirm your permit fee based on the type of work, number of days, and use of the road.
Pick up your permit
Pick up and pay for your permit at the Waterloo Service Centre, 265 Lexington Court, Monday to Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Payment is in person only:
- we accept cash, debit and cheques – payable to City of Waterloo
- we don't accept credit cards
Check permit fees
Fees are non-refundable and do not include HST.
Some fees are not listed here. For a complete list, read the Fees and Charges Bylaw.
| Permit type | Fee |
|---|---|
| Occupancy or excavation permit | $145.00 |
| Lane closure |
$35.00 to $145.00 per lane, per day We'll confirm the correct lane closure fee based on the type and duration of your request. |
| Temporary construction parking – resident | $7.25 per day or $41.25 per month |
| Temporary construction parking – contractor | $7.25 per day or $67.00 per month |
Check your legal requirements
Learn about your responsibilities under the Highway Occupancy Bylaw. It explains when a permit is required and what happens if you use a city road or right-of-way without approval.
If your project affects a regional road
The Region of Waterloo handles permits for oversized loads and work that affects regional roads: