Customer Service Support
You can submit applications for all our permit types through the Seattle Services Portal.
For customers who need language assistance or technical coaching, visit our Permitting Customer Service Support page for more details.
Heavy Crane
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Step 1: Confirming that a Heavy Crane Permit is Required for My Project
Step 2: Preparing Submittal Documents for My Permit
Step 3: Applying for My Permit
Step 5: Scheduling a Job Start Notification
Step 6: Applying for an Amendment to Modify/Extend My Permit
BACKGROUND: Seattle Municipal Code (SMC 15.04.010 - permit required) requires a Seattle Department of Transportation (SDOT) permit for all utility work in the public right of way (ROW). The permittee, or a designated authorized agent, is responsible for obtaining a permit before any construction related activity.
Step 1 - Confirming that a Heavy Crane permit (SUCRANE) is Required for My Project
- Heavy Crane permits are used for the staging only of heavy cranes in public right-of-way with a tonnage rating of more than 100 tons.
- Heavy Crane permits are required for the installation and removal only of temporary cranes
- The crane company must apply for the Heavy Crane permit
- Heavy Crane permits require valid insurance from the crane company per requirements
If you are unsure that your proposed project qualifies for a Heavy Crane permit, you can call (206) 684-7623 or send an email to 684-Road@seattle.gov for assistance.
*These are general guidelines, and we may require additional information or permit type at our discretion.
Step 2 - Preparing Submittal Documents for My Permit
The Heavy Crane (SUCRANE) permit requires the following documents to submit for your permit.
- Right of Way Impact Plan (ROWIP). The ROWIP will need to include all impacts to the right of way. This would typically include staging, equipment, and any other impacts to the right of way. More information on what is required for the ROWIP is found in Client Assistance Memo CAM 2116
- Traffic Control Plan (TCP). A TCP is required if your project requires any mobility impacts in the right of way. TCP requirements and additional information can be found in Client Assistance Memo CAM 2111
- Technical drawings may be required. Technical drawings show the type, placement, and details of installations in or adjacent to the right-of-way that are necessary details to supplement the ROWIP and/or site plan. We use the technical plan to understand the details of the construction activity, the size and impact of proposed installations, and how installations are constructed. More information on what is required for the ROWIP is found in Client Assistance Memo CAM 2116
Step 3 - Applying for My Permit
Go to the Seattle Services Accela Permitting Portal
Under "Create New" click Permits-Street Use
If this is your first time applying for a permit online, click on the "New Users: register for an Account" located at the bottom of the page.
Once you are registered, you can log on and apply by selecting "Heavy Crane " under the record type.
Follow the step by step instructions to complete the application process.
Step 4 - Issuing My Permit
Once we approve your permit, you'll receive an email indicating that your permit is ready to issue upon payment.
Once you receive that email, you can pay for your permit online through the Seattle Services Portal and print your permit! We've created a page where you can review our current fee schedule and estimate your permit fees. Consult with Street Use permit staff to determine the exact fees if you have questions.
Step 5: Scheduling a Job Start Notification
Prior to starting your project, you will need to notify us of when your project will begin by scheduling a job start notification. Review your approved plans and carefully read all the conditions of your permit and then schedule the job start.
To schedule a job start notification, follow the instructions found in this Help article.
For more information on inspections, visit our Inspections page.
If you need to reserve a non-paid parking space, follow the instructions on our Temporary No Parking Permits page.
Step 6: Applying for an Amendment to Modify/Extend My Permit
Once your permit has been issued, if you need to make changes such as changing the permitted dates, modifying your scope of work, or extend your uses, there are four different types of amendments to choose from. Log on to your Seattle Services Portal account and from your dashboard pick the permit you would like to modify and submit the required information.
Here are some amendment types:
Date Change Amendment - This amendment type is for when your project start date may have been delayed and you want to request a change prior to your permitted use date. This does not change the duration of the use but would be used when you need to change the actual start date before work has begun.
Extension Amendment - This amendment type is for when your project will take longer than you anticipated and you need to extend a use (one or more) on your permit. This is used only when you need additional time to complete your project; no other changes can be made under this amendment.
Revision Amendment - This amendment allows you to make changes to the scope of work, add or remove use areas, revise contact information or request a cancellation of your permit. You may combine an extension with this amendment type if necessary.
Withdrawal Amendment - Did you apply for a permit only to realize that you had made a mistake and didn't actually want it? If so, you may withdraw your application in the Accela portal as long as we have not begun processing your application.