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1. What is the purpose of the Right-of-Way (ROW) division?

The Right of Way Division coordinates, permits, and inspects roadway construction projects and serves as the liaison to utility companies.

2. How does ROW operate?

ROW issues permits for all construction work in city right-of-way. Contractors must submit permit applications, construction plans, and maintenance of traffic (MOT) plans 7 to 14 days in advance of work. The application and plans and reviewed and a permit is issued upon approval. The division also seeks to avoid wasteful duplication of effort by coordinating utility work and land other projects well as the associated street, sidewalk, and lane closures in advance of pre-determined milestones and deadlines.

3. What does ROW inspect?

• Street excavations
• Work sites / work zones in the roadway
• Roadway, sidewalk, curb, and gutter restoration
• Traffic control in accordance with the Virginia Work Area Protection Manual

4. How does ROW handle emergency street conditions?

In order to minimize traffic disruption, the City of Norfolk requires notification during and after emergency repairs are made. Contractors are to call 911 and the permits office at 775-664-7306.

5. How can you contact ROW?

The public can contact ROW by phone at 757-664-7306, via email, or by mail at:
810 Union St.
Room 201
Norfolk, VA 23510

6. What other areas does ROW address?

ROW has enforcement authority over the following areas:

• Franchise utility agreements
• Utility relocations
• Encroachments
• Driveways
• Street re-paving
• Graffiti in the ROW
• ADA accessibility
• Pedestrian ramps
• Pedestrian safety
• Illegal signs

For more information call the City of Norfolk, Right of Way Permits Office at 757-664-7306.