Culverts are pipes or structures placed under driveways to ensure water flows smoothly in drainage ditches without causing blockages or flooding. A culvert permit lets you create, change, or widen a driveway access point from the private property to the road where the culvert is needed for drainage. This permit ensures the work meets engineering standards and does not disrupt public infrastructure.
Apply for a culvert entrance permit
- Drawing: Submit a property drawing that shows the size and location of the access point. City staff will determine the appropriate culvert size and pipe material.
- Traffic Safety: Prepare and follow a Traffic/Pedestrian Protection and Control Plan that meets the Occupational Health and Safety Act and the Ontario Traffic Manual (OTM) Book 7.
- Insurance: Provide proof of at least $5 million inclusive liability insurance with "The Corporation of the City of Niagara Falls" listed as the certificate holder. Use the City’s Standard Certificate of Insurance form.
- WSIB: Submit a valid WSIB clearance certificate for the entire duration of the work.
- Other permits: This permit is only valid for roads managed by the City of Niagara Falls. If your work affects roads managed by others, like the Niagara Parks Commission or Niagara Region, you’ll need to get permits from them. You can check road ownership on our Street Name List page.
- Complete the Entrance/Culvert Permit Application and agree to the General Conditions.
- Submit your application, drawing, all required documents, and payment at least five (5) business days before the work begins. You can apply in person at City Hall’s Engineering Department or email [email protected]
- If approved, you will receive a permit number and details about any required security deposit.
Fees
- You must pay a $350 administration fee and a security deposit.
- The Permit Coordinator determines the security deposit amount at the time of application.
- Pay in person with cash, cheque, or debit before starting work.
- Check the Schedule of Fees to find the most current fees.
Returning your security deposit
All restoration work must be completed within six months of the date the road occupancy permit is issued.
Once your work is finished and approved by the City, fill out the Electronic Funds Transfer Authorization Form and email it to accounts payable at [email protected].
Contact us
City of Niagara Falls
Municipal Works - Engineering
4310 Queen Street
Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6X5
905-356-7521 ext. 4549
[email protected]
