Curb Cut Permit

What Is It?

You need a curb cut permit when you make a new driveway in an existing sidewalk curb. The curb cut permit is often part of a building construction permit, but may also be issued as a stand-alone permit. The Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) oversees curb cut permits, because curbs are on the City right-of-way. 

What It Isn't

A curb cut permit does not address parking and car storage or location, size, and number of parking spots. Also, this permit does not authorize revisions to landscaping in the right-of-way. That is a separate permit from SDOT Urban Forestry.

Steps to Get Your Permit

If you need a stand-alone curb cut permit, you need to submit an application through the Seattle Department of Transportation. See their How Do I Submit an Application for a ROW Construction permit help article for instructions. SDCI will work with SDOT staff to confirm the proposed curb cut permit complies with SMC 23.54.030.F and the site plan standards of TIP 103 in order to verify the width, location and number of allowable curb cuts.

If you have a construction project on the site, your curb cut permit will be part of your single-family or duplex construction permit or your multi-family, commercial, mixed use, or industrial construction permit.