Permit guides › Washington, D.C. › DC-TR-03
DDOT Public Space Occupancy Permit (Construction): Washington, D.C. restaurant guide
DDOT — Public Space Regulation Division
What it is
Permit to place a dumpster, scaffolding, materials or a crane on the sidewalk, street or alley during construction.
When a restaurant needs it
If construction needs any public right-of-way.
How to apply
Apply in TOPS (register an account first).
Documents you’ll need
- Site plan showing occupied area
- Traffic control plan if travel lanes are affected
- Contractor info and insurance
Fee
Varies — see DDOT public space permit fees
Processing time
Varies
Renewal
Per permit dates
Who files
Typically filed by the contractor.
Good to know
Usually handled by your general contractor; build it into the construction schedule.
Official source
DDOT: public space permit applications · TOPS portal
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Last reviewed 2026-10-06. Guidance only, not legal advice.