General Process for Obtaining an Excavation Permit

While specific requirements vary by state and municipality, most excavation permits follow a standard process.

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Step 1: Determine If You Need a Permit

Not all excavation projects require a permit, but you will likely need one if your project involves:

• Digging deeper than a few inches (thresholds vary by location).

• Altering the natural landscape, including moving large amounts of dirt or grading land.

• Excavating near public infrastructure such as roads, sidewalks, or drainage systems.

• Working near underground utilities, including gas, water, electric, or telecom lines.

• Affecting environmentally sensitive areas, such as wetlands, rivers, or protected land.

Check with your local city or county office to confirm if your project requires an excavation permit.

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Step 2: Contact the Appropriate Authorities

Once you confirm that a permit is required, you must contact the relevant agencies. These often include:

• 811 Call Before You Dig – Almost all states require you to call 811 before excavation. This service locates underground utilities to prevent accidental damage.

• State Environmental Agencies – If your project affects stormwater, erosion control, or land use, approval may be required from your state’s environmental department.

• Department of Transportation (DOT) – If you are working near public roads or highways, you may need a Right-of-Way (ROW) permit.

• Local City or County Offices – Zoning, building, and land-use permits often fall under municipal or county governments.

Many agencies have online portals where you can submit applications, review requirements, and check your permit status.

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Step 3: Submit Your Permit Application

When applying for an excavation permit, you typically need to provide:

• A project description detailing the type of excavation work being performed.

• The exact location of the project, including property boundaries and nearby infrastructure.

• Depth of excavation limits (some areas restrict how deep you can dig).

• Environmental impact reports if the project affects stormwater runoff, wetlands, or wildlife.

• A safety plan if working near highways, public areas, or underground utilities.

Tip: Submit applications well in advance—processing times vary, and some permits can take weeks to be approved.

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Step 4: Pay Permit Fees

Most excavation permits require a fee, which varies based on state, project size, and complexity:

• Small residential excavation permits may cost under $100.

• Large commercial excavation projects may cost hundreds or thousands of dollars.

• Additional environmental review fees may apply for projects near protected areas.

Contact your local permitting office for exact pricing.

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Step 5: Schedule an Inspection (If Required)

Some excavation permits require an inspection before, during, or after the project. Inspectors typically check for:

• Proper safety measures.

• Adequate erosion control.

• Compliance with depth and boundary restrictions.

Failing an inspection could result in delays and additional costs for re-inspections.

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Step 6: Receive Permit Approval and Begin Work

Once your permit is approved, you can begin excavation while following the permit conditions. Keep permit documents on-site, as inspectors may conduct random checks.

State-Specific Excavation Permit Requirements

Each state has unique requirements for excavation permits. Below, we provide details for Texas and Colorado, two states with high excavation activity due to rapid development and infrastructure projects.

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Key Permits Required in Texas

Texas 811 Call Before You Dig

• Texas law requires you to contact Texas 811 at least two business days before excavation.

• Failing to comply can result in fines up to $10,000 per violation.

Stormwater Permit

• Projects disturbing one acre or more require a Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP).

• Permits are managed by the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ).

Right-of-Way (ROW) Permit

• Required for excavation work near public roads.

• Issued by TxDOT or local municipalities.

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Key Permits Required in Colorado

Colorado 811 Dig Notice

• Excavators must notify Colorado 811 at least three business days before digging.

• Failure to comply can result in penalties of up to $75,000 per violation.

Stormwater and Land Disturbance Permits

• Projects disturbing one acre or more require a stormwater discharge permit.

• Issued by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE).

City and County Excavation Permits

• Many cities, including Denver and Boulder, require additional permits for land disturbance, erosion control, and utility work.

• Check with local city or county offices for details.

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How Permit Requirements Vary by State

Permit requirements can differ significantly based on state and local regulations. Here are some additional examples:

• California – Requires extensive environmental impact reviews and stormwater management permits.

• Florida – Excavation near coastal areas requires additional permits from the Florida DEP.

• New York – Excavators in New York City must secure extra building department approvals.

• Illinois – Strict soil erosion permits are required for land disturbance.

• Arizona – Special excavation permits are required near Native American land.

Always check with state and local permitting offices before starting excavation work.

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Downstream: Your Trusted Excavation Equipment Rental Partner

At Downstream, we understand that getting the right excavation permits can be a time-consuming process. That’s why we do more than just rent equipment—we help make your projects easier and more efficient by ensuring you have access to the right tools and information.

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Why Choose Downstream?

• High-Quality Excavation Equipment – We offer a range of excavators and earthmoving equipment that comply with state and local regulations.

• Expert Support – Our team can help you understand permitting requirements and guide you in selecting the right equipment for your project.

• Flexible Rental Options – Whether you need an excavator for a short-term job or an extended project, we provide affordable and flexible rental plans.

• Reliable and Well-Maintained Machines – Our equipment is regularly serviced to ensure top performance and safety compliance.

By choosing Downstream, you’re not just renting a machine—you’re getting a trusted partner who understands the ins and outs of excavation projects.

Explore our excavation equipment rentals and get started on your project today.

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The Final Scoop

Securing the correct excavation permits is critical for legal compliance, safety, and avoiding project delays. Whether you are operating in Texas, Colorado, or any other state, always:

• Confirm if a permit is required.

• Submit applications in advance.

• Follow all permit conditions.

For reliable excavator rentals and expert advice on permitting, Downstream has you covered. Get started today and dig with confidence!

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