Right of way is County property, and certain improvements are not allowed without first obtaining County approval. A right of way permit gives you legal access to work within a County-owned right of way or easement. A permit ensures that work is done safely and meets codes and regulations.
Q: How do I schedule an inspection?
A: You can call the automated system at 239-533-8997 and enter the following codes:
| 750: Stakeout/Evaluation Inspection | 763: Maintenance of Traffic Inspection |
| 751: Culvert Inspection | 766: Drainage Inspection |
| 752: Form Inspection | 767: Roadway Inspection |
| 753: Finish Limerock Inspection | 769: Sidewalk Inspection |
| 754: Final Inspection | 770: Miscellaneous Inspection |
| | 779: Final Inspection |
Q: How can I find out if I live on a County-maintained road?
A: Use our County-maintained roads search.
Q: If I live on a private road, do I need a right of way permit?
A: No, but it is highly recommended to check with any appropriate association.
Q: If I live in a gated community or association, do I need a right of way permit to update my driveway or frontage?
A: No, but it is highly recommended to check with any appropriate association.
Q: If I want to make changes to my frontage or upgrade my driveway along a
County right of way, do I need a right of way permit?
A: Yes. A permit is required for any upgrades to the frontage along a County right of way. Please note that any time an upgrade is done, the driveway needs to be brought up to current codes.
Q: If I need to shut down a lane or road, do I need a right of way permit?
A: Yes. If the work being done affects traffic flow and is not safe, a permit is required as well as a copy of the appropriate maintenance of traffic (MOT) index from the current Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT) Design Standards.
Q: Can I request an inspector or someone from DOT to come to my residence and explain what I can or cannot do in the right of way?
A: Yes. It is a free service. Call 239-533-9300 or email dotengineering@leegov.com.
Q: How long does it take to obtain a right of way permit?
A: It can take up to two weeks to obtain your permit after it is called in and put on the list. If there is a problem, you will be contacted by phone.
Q: What is the cost of a right of way permit?
A: The fees are as follows:
| Single Driveway: $95 | Basic: $30 |
| | Maintenance of Traffic: $30 |
| Double Driveway: $125 | Utility Permit: $30 for the first mile; $7 for each additional .25 mile |
| | Single Driveway: $130 |
| | Double Driveway: $155 |
Q: May I start work before the right of way permit has been issued?
A: No, but you may use this time to call for utility locates in the right of way. State law requires you to call Sunshine811 at least 48 hours before you dig in any right of way. Their toll-free number is 800-432-4770 or 811. Failure to do so will subject you to fines. The Sunshine811 service is free to everyone.
Q: How long is a right of way permit good?
A: Expiration dates are as follows:
- Residential Driveway Permit: Expires one year from the date signed by the inspector.
- Commercial Use Permit: Expires 90 days after the issue date.
No work is allowed to be done if a permit has expired. Extensions can be requested prior to expiration dates.
Q: Who do I call if I have additional questions?
A: Please call the Lee County DOT Engineering Services Permitting & Inspections Department at 239-533-9300 Monday through Friday from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., or email us at dotengineering@leegov.com.