Transportation improvements are crucial to accessing proposed development sites. As a result, transportation agencies play a large role in the permitting process.

Department of Transportation

The Department of Transportation (DOT) regulates access to the state highway system. In order to effectively control access to the system for safe and efficient traffic flow, DOT only allows activities in highway rights-of-way pursuant to a highway work permit. This is also known as a "curb cut" permit as it allows the applicant a direct connection to the highway system. This is the most common transportation permit required for site development. DOT also provides limited use permits for activities in or use of state-owned highway rights-of-way.

For further information, contact the DOT Regional Traffic Engineer for the area where a site is located. Information on permits for use of DOT rights-of-way can be obtained from the Department's Regional Real Estate Officer for the area where the site is located. Contact information is available on the Permit Contact Information webpage.

Thruway Authority / Canal Corporation

Both of these agencies regulate access to their respective rights-of-way to ensure safe and successful operation of their primary facilities, the New York State Thruway and the state's canal corridors. Both agencies own considerable lands adjacent to their respective facilities. Such lands, along with bordering properties, are often very valuable due to their location in proximity to these important transportation and recreation facilities. As such, both agencies issue permits for activities on their lands. Such activities tend toward the linear nature of the facilities, including pipelines, electric wires, fiber optic cables, and other telecommunication facilities. However, other activities are permitted, including parking areas.

For further information, contact one of the four regional Division Offices of the New York State Thruway Authority and the Canal Corporation. Contact information is provided on the Permit Contact Information webpage.

For more "Shovel Ready Guide" information, visit the resources below:

Shovel Ready Guide Introduction 
SEQR's Role in Certification
Getting Your Site Certified
Permit Assistance
Environmental Permits
Health & Land Use Permits
Other Types of Permits
Permit Contact Information