Glendale Excavation Permit Process

Utilities and Infrastructure California 3 Minutes Read ยท published February 10, 2026 Flag of California

In Glendale, California, excavation projects that affect public rights-of-way, sidewalks, streets, alleys, or utilities typically require city permits and coordination with utility-locate services. This guide explains which Glendale departments enforce excavation and encroachment rules, the typical application flow, inspection and 811 requirements, and practical steps to reduce delays for construction, utility work, and private-site digs.

Contact city permitting early to confirm whether an encroachment or building permit applies.

Permit types & when required

Common permit categories for excavation in Glendale include encroachment permits for work in the public right-of-way and building permits for on-site foundation or structural excavations that affect public safety. Projects that trench, remove or alter sidewalks, curb, gutter, driveways, or street surfaces almost always require a city permit and inspection.

  • Encroachment permit for work in streets, sidewalks, alleys, and the public right-of-way (encroachment permit page)[1]
  • Building permit for structural or foundation excavations that affect a building or its support (Building & Safety)[2]
  • Utility clearance (811/Dig Alert) before any ground disturbance
Failure to notify for utility locates can cause hazardous strikes and liability.

Application process

Applicants submit permit applications, plans, and any traffic control drawings to the appropriate Glendale office. Review times depend on completeness, scope, and whether environmental or traffic control plans are needed. Typical steps are plan submittal, review, fee payment, permit issuance, pre-construction coordination (including utility locates), and inspections.

  • Pre-application: consult Public Works or Building & Safety for scope and submittal requirements
  • Submit plans and application to the department indicated on the permit type
  • Pay permit fees as invoiced by the city (see application portal)
  • Schedule inspections through the issuing department after work begins

Penalties & Enforcement

The City of Glendale enforces excavation and encroachment rules through its Public Works and Building & Safety departments. Specific monetary fines and administrative penalties for unpermitted excavation are not specified on the cited city permit pages; see the department contacts for enforcement action and civil or criminal referral processes.[2]

Always obtain required permits before breaking ground to avoid enforcement actions.
  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page
  • Escalation: first, repeat, and continuing offence ranges not specified on the cited page
  • Non-monetary sanctions: stop-work orders, restoration orders, and civil court referral (enforced by Public Works or Building & Safety)
  • Inspection and complaint pathway: contact Glendale Building & Safety or Public Works for enforcement and complaint intake[2]

Applications & Forms

The city publishes application forms and submittal instructions through the issuing departments. Specific form names and fee schedules are listed on the department permit pages; if a specific form number is required it is shown on that page, otherwise the city accepts the standard permit application packet.[1]

  • Encroachment Permit Application: see the Encroachment Permit page for the current form and submittal instructions[1]
  • Building Permit Application: available via Building & Safety[2]

Common violations

  • Excavating in the public right-of-way without an encroachment permit
  • Failing to obtain utility locates (811) before digging
  • Not restoring pavement, sidewalk, or curb to city standards

FAQ

Do I need an excavation permit for work on my private property?
It depends: structural excavations affecting foundations, retaining walls, or public safety typically require a building permit; work in the public right-of-way requires an encroachment permit. Contact Building & Safety or Public Works for project-specific guidance.[2]
How do I arrange utility locates before digging?
Call Underground Service Alert (811) or follow the city guidance to request utility locates before any excavation.
How long does permit review take?
Review time varies by scope and completeness; the city pages list current processing guidance or estimated timelines where available.

How-To

  1. Determine whether your work is in the public right-of-way or affects building structure; contact Glendale Public Works or Building & Safety for classification.[2]
  2. Prepare plans, traffic control drawings, and permit application documents per the department checklist.
  3. Submit the application and plans to the appropriate Glendale department and pay fees.
  4. Obtain utility locates via 811/Dig Alert before any excavation.
  5. Schedule required inspections and comply with restoration and traffic control conditions.

Key Takeaways

  • Always verify whether an encroachment or building permit is required for excavation.
  • Call 811 for utility locates before you dig to avoid hazards and delays.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Glendale Encroachment Permit page
  2. [2] City of Glendale Building & Safety

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