How Long Does It Take to Get an Excavation Permit?

Quick Answer

Getting an excavation permit typically takes 1–4 weeks, depending on the scope of work, your local jurisdiction, and whether the dig crosses public rights-of-way or utility corridors. Simple residential projects like fence-post holes or sprinkler lines can be permitted in as little as 3–5 business days, while large commercial excavations may take a month or more.

Factors That Affect Timeline

Factor	Impact on Timeline
Residential vs. commercial	Residential is faster (3–10 days); commercial adds 1–3 weeks
Utility locates (811 call)	Mandatory 2–3 business day waiting period in most states
Right-of-way encroachment	Adds 1–2 weeks for traffic control and restoration plans
Environmental review	Can add 2–6 weeks if wetlands or protected areas are involved
Depth of excavation	Trenches over 5 feet trigger OSHA shoring requirements and extra review

Step-by-Step Process

1. Call 811 Before You Dig

Every state requires you to contact 811 at least 2–3 business days before any excavation. Utility companies will mark underground lines at no cost. This step is non-negotiable and is often a prerequisite for your permit application.

2. Submit the Permit Application

Visit your city or county building department (many now accept online applications). You will typically need a site plan showing the excavation location, depth, dimensions, and proximity to property lines and utilities.

3. Plan Review

The building department reviews your application for compliance with local codes, setback requirements, and erosion-control standards. Simple residential permits may be reviewed same-day or within 3–5 days. Commercial projects usually go through a more thorough plan review lasting 1–3 weeks.

4. Additional Agency Approvals

If your excavation crosses a public road or sidewalk, you may need a separate right-of-way permit from the public works department. Excavations near waterways may require state environmental agency review.

5. Permit Issuance and Inspection

Once approved, the permit is issued and you can begin work. Most jurisdictions require an open-trench inspection before backfilling.

Typical Timelines by Project Type

Project Type	Typical Permit Timeline
Residential fence or irrigation trench	3–5 business days
Residential utility connection	5–10 business days
Commercial site excavation	2–4 weeks
Road or sidewalk crossing	2–4 weeks
Excavation near wetlands or waterways	4–8 weeks

Tips to Speed Up the Process

• Call 811 immediately — the utility-locate waiting period runs concurrently with your application.
• Submit a complete application — missing site plans or dimensions are the most common cause of delays.
• Check for expedited review — many jurisdictions offer same-day or next-day review for an additional fee.
• Hire a licensed contractor — permitted contractors often have established relationships with plan reviewers.

Costs

Excavation permit fees range from $50–$200 for residential projects and $200–$1,000+ for commercial work. Right-of-way permits carry separate fees, often $150–$500, plus a refundable restoration deposit.