FAQs • Maricopa County, AZ • CivicEngage

Do I need to contact the Maricopa County Environmental Services Department (MCESD) if I intend to work on a water or sewer line?

Any water or sewer line project valued at more than $12,500 requires written approval from MCESD prior to review by MCDOT.

Water or sewer line projects on the city of Phoenix’s (COP) facilities require written approval from the COP prior to review by MCDOT.

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MCDOT - Permits

1. My plans were reviewed and approved by MCDOT. How long is the approval valid?: MCDOT’s plan approval letters are valid for one year from the approval date. If a permit is not issued within one year, plans must be resubmitted to MCDOT for re-approval. Return to MCDOT

2. I will be working on utilities or other facilities owned by another entity or jurisdiction? Does that entity need to review my plans?: All plans involving work on another entity’s or jurisdiction’s utility or facility must be reviewed and approved by that entity or jurisdiction prior to MCDOT’s review. Written proof of approval must be included in your submittal package to MCDOT. Return to MCDOT

Any water or sewer line project valued at more than $12,500 requires written approval from MCESD prior to review by MCDOT.

Water or sewer line projects on the city of Phoenix’s (COP) facilities require written approval from the COP prior to review by MCDOT.

4. I received my permit, when can I begin work?: Prior to beginning work, you must submit a Start/Completion Construction Notice to MCDOT. This notice and a traffic control plan (TCP) must be provided at least 24 hours prior to start of work. If the requested traffic control plan is complicated or in a high traffic location, more than 24 hours review time may be required. Check with Permits Customer Service if you have questions regarding longer TCP review times. Return to MCDOT

5. My work is completed. Do I need to let MCDOT know?: Yes, you must submit a completed Start / Completion Construction Notice to a MCDOT Inspector upon completion. Return to MCDOT

6. How are permit fees determined?: The permit fee structure is established by the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors. The current fee schedule, available here in step #3, is incorporated in Ordinance P-36.
Return to MCDOT

7. Why must I pay a permit fee?: Permit fees are intended to offset the cost to MCDOT for inspection to assure that the proposed improvements are built to County Standards and observe safety guidelines. Return to MCDOT

8. My permit expired but I still have work to do. How do I renew my permit?: Applicants requesting an extension of their permit no more than 90 days after expiration will pay a renewal fee equal to 20% of the original permit fee. Renewals requested 90 or more days after expiration are subject to all fees similar to a new application.
Return to MCDOT

9. I need to cancel my permit. Can I get a refund?: If a permit is cancelled prior to its expiration and no work was performed, you can submit a written request for a permit refund. If approved, MCDOT will refund the permit fee, less the processing fee and 20% of the original permit fee. Return to MCDOT

10. Are performance or surety bonds required for all MCDOT Right of Way permits?: Performance or surety bonds are required for all projects unless the project is being constructed by a public agency with a net worth of more than $1,000,000 as reflected by its most current balance sheet. Return to MCDOT