Hoover, AL - Report Potholes & Encroachment Permits

Transportation Alabama 3 Minutes Read · published March 08, 2026 Flag of Alabama

In Hoover, Alabama, the city handles road maintenance and right-of-way work through Public Works and Engineering. This guide explains how residents and contractors can report potholes, request repairs, and obtain encroachment permits for work in the public right-of-way. It summarizes who enforces the rules, where to find official applications, common violations, and the steps to appeal or follow up after a complaint. Use the links below to submit problems or start a permit application and keep records of any reference numbers you receive when you contact the city.

Reporting potholes

To report a pothole, provide the exact street address or nearest intersection, a description of the hazard, and photos if available. The City of Hoover Public Works accepts reports online and by phone; use the official report page or call the department to start a service request. Report a pothole or street issue[1]

Report immediate hazards promptly and include photos to speed inspection.

Encroachment permits for work in the right-of-way

Any work that occupies or alters the public right-of-way—such as driveways, utility connections, excavation, or temporary construction storage—usually requires a right-of-way or encroachment permit. Contractors must submit engineering plans, traffic-control plans when relevant, and proof of insurance as specified by the City of Hoover Engineering Division. See the Engineering or Permits page to begin the permit application. Right-of-way and encroachment permits[2]

Do not start work in the public right-of-way without an approved permit to avoid stop-work orders and fines.

Penalties & Enforcement

The municipal code and department pages describe enforcement responsibility, inspection processes, and remedies for violations. Specific fine amounts, escalation by repeat or continuing offenses, and precise time limits for filings are not specified on the cited city pages and must be confirmed with the City Clerk or Municipal Court. City ordinances and enforcement information[3]

  • Fines and civil penalties: not specified on the cited page; check municipal code or contact Municipal Court for amounts.
  • Enforcement agencies: Public Works and Engineering inspect potholes and right-of-way work; Municipal Court or Code Enforcement may pursue violations.
  • Escalation: first offence vs repeat/continuing offences — not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, corrective orders, removal or restoration of work, and court actions are possible; specific procedures referenced in city pages.

Applications & Forms

  • Right-of-way / Encroachment Permit application: available from the Engineering Division page; fee schedule not specified on the cited page.
  • Submitting applications: follow instructions on the Engineering or Public Works pages for online submission or in-person drop-off.

FAQ

How do I report a pothole in Hoover?
Provide the location, description, and photos via the City of Hoover Public Works report page or by phone; keep any reference number you receive for follow up.[1]
When is an encroachment permit required?
An encroachment permit is required for work that occupies or alters the public right-of-way, including excavations, utility work, and certain driveway or curb changes; contact Engineering for application details.[2]
What happens if I work without a permit?
Working without an approved permit can lead to stop-work orders, orders to restore the right-of-way, fines, and court action; specific penalties are listed in city ordinances or available from Municipal Court.[3]

How-To

  1. Identify the exact location and take photos of the pothole or affected area.
  2. Visit the City of Hoover Public Works report page or call the department to submit the location, description, and photos.[1]
  3. Record the service request number and note any estimated response time given by the city.
  4. If planning work in the right-of-way, consult the Engineering Division, submit permit application materials, and await written approval before starting work.[2]

Key Takeaways

  • Report potholes promptly with location and photos to speed repairs.
  • Obtain an encroachment permit before working in the right-of-way to avoid enforcement actions.
  • Contact Public Works or Engineering for forms, fees, and submission instructions.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Hoover - Public Works: report a pothole or street issue
  2. [2] City of Hoover - Engineering: right-of-way and encroachment permits
  3. [3] City of Hoover - City Clerk: municipal code and ordinance information

Categories

General Governance and Administration Public Safety Public Health and Welfare Land Use and Zoning Housing and Building Standards Transportation Environmental Protection Parks and Public Spaces Business and Consumer Protection Taxation and Finance Labor and Employment Education Civil Rights and Equity Elections and Campaign Finance Events and Special Uses Signs and Advertising Utilities and Infrastructure Technology and Data