Agency moves to electronic and ward-based permitting
(Washington, DC) The District Department of Transportation (DDOT) announces several major improvements in the granting and management of public space permits, including reducing the paper-work burden through web- and ward-based permitting and more accountability by mandating more on-site information, particularly for sidewalk cafés.
In addition, DDOT and the Department of Consumer and Regulatory Affairs (DCRA) are working to eliminate the separate filing of a public space permit application when the information required for a DDOT public space permit is already on the DCRA building permit application.
"These improvement, particularly electronic permitting and more accessible public information, are significant advances for public space applicants and the public," said Michelle Pourciau, Acting Transportation Director. "When fully set up, DDOT will issue public space permits over the web."
The first phase of electronic permitting allows utility companies to notify DDOT online that they have made an emergency street cut. DDOT has also changed the format of its sidewalk café permits, providing more information on each permit. Along with other District permits that are already posted, sidewalk café operators will have to display approved furnishings, allowed area and revenue to the District.
DDOT public space permitting is also being made more accountable by being assigned by wards. Permitting staff will now be assigned to specific wards making coordination easier, particularly for large projects and making it easier for the public to know who is responsible for a particular application. The team leader for Wards 1-4 is Tyrone Jackson (202) 535-2209 or email and for wards 5-8 is Matthew Marcou (202) 442-4670 or email.
Public space permits are needed to occupy, build or install in or on publicly-owned property between the property lines of a street, park or other public property, such as for utility work, sidewalk cafes, work zones and driveways.