Public rights-of-way have long been used to locate public utilities such as sewer, water, storm sewer and utilities. As technology has evolved, so has the use of the public rights-of-way. To protect public safety and the public interest, local governments are charged with managing increasingly complex rights-of-way.
The City of Plymouth has a Right-of-Way Management Ordinance to ensure effective and careful management of these public areas. Plymouth's ordinance addresses things such as:
- Permit requirements and fees;
- Mapping and reporting obligations;
- Standards for location and installation of equipment and lines;
- Relocation of equipment;
- Removal of abandoned equipment; and
- Right-of-way restoration.
Any individual or group, including utility companies, telecommunications firms, private contractors and private individuals, must have a permit to use the right-of-way. The City charges a permit fee that allows the City to recover the costs related to right-of-way management.