Lexington-Fayette Pothole Reporting & Encroachment Rules

Transportation Kentucky 4 Minutes Read ยท published February 09, 2026 Flag of Kentucky

In Lexington-Fayette, Kentucky, maintaining public streets and regulating encroachments into the public right-of-way protect safety and property values. This guide explains how to report potholes, when a right-of-way or encroachment permit is required, who enforces the rules, likely penalties, and practical steps to resolve issues as a resident or contractor.

Reporting Potholes

To report a pothole on a city-maintained street, use the official online reporting tool or contact Public Works. Provide a clear location, description, and a photo where possible to help crews prioritize repairs. Most reports are triaged for safety-related repairs first and scheduled according to severity and available resources. [1]

Report major hazards immediately and mark the area if safe to do so.

Encroachment Rules & When You Need a Permit

Encroachment into the public right-of-way includes placing fences, driveways, signs, landscaping, or construction material that extends into sidewalks, planting strips, or roadway edge. Property owners and contractors must check with Lexington-Fayette permits and Public Works before starting work. Right-of-way permits and conditions aim to keep pedestrian and vehicle access safe and to protect public infrastructure. [2]

Always confirm permit requirements before hauling materials onto or across a sidewalk.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement is handled by Lexington-Fayette departments responsible for Public Works and Code Enforcement. Specific fines and escalation procedures are set by local ordinances and permit conditions; if a precise penalty or fee is not listed on the cited permit or reporting pages, the text below notes where amounts are not specified on the cited page. Enforcement remedies typically include fines, work orders to correct an encroachment, and removal of unpermitted items at the owners expense.

  • Fines: not specified on the cited page; see official permit or code pages for amounts and schedules.[2]
  • Escalation: first or repeat offence ranges not specified on the cited page; repeated noncompliance can lead to additional fines or administrative actions.[2]
  • Non-monetary sanctions: corrective orders, removal of encroachments, stop-work orders, and possible court action for persistent violations.
  • Enforcer and complaint pathways: Lexington-Fayette Public Works and Code Enforcement handle investigations; use the Public Works contact or online reporting form to submit complaints.[1]
  • Appeals and review: specific appeal routes and time limits are not specified on the cited permit page; check the city code or permit decision notice for appeal deadlines.
If a permit is denied or a fine issued, the permit decision notice should state appeal steps.

Applications & Forms

  • Right-of-Way Permit application: name and form details are provided on the city permits page; fees and submission method are not specified on the cited page.[2]
  • Pothole/Street Repair report: online report form for street maintenance; no fee for reporting; repairs scheduled by Public Works.[1]

The most reliable route for reporting and permit applications is the official Lexington-Fayette website sections for Public Works and Permits. Provide photos, GPS or cross-street details, permit numbers for contractor work, and contact information for faster processing.

Practical Steps to Report or Resolve an Encroachment

  • Document: take dated photos and note measurements of the encroachment.
  • Report: submit a pothole or code complaint through the official reporting page or contact Public Works for right-of-way issues.[1]
  • Apply: if work requires a permit, complete the right-of-way permit application and include plans and insurance as requested.[2]
  • Comply: follow corrective orders promptly to avoid escalation.
Keep records of all submissions and permit correspondence until the matter is closed.

FAQ

How do I report a pothole in Lexington-Fayette?
Use the citys official pothole or street maintenance report form and include location, description, and photos when possible. [1]
Do I need a permit to place a fence or driveway that touches the sidewalk?
Likely yes; work that encroaches on the public right-of-way typically requires a right-of-way permit. Check the permits page and contact Public Works for specific requirements. [2]
Who enforces repairs and encroachment removals?
Lexington-Fayette Public Works and Code Enforcement investigate and order corrective action; persistent noncompliance can lead to administrative or court actions.
How long before a reported pothole is fixed?
Repair times depend on severity, location, weather, and available crews; the city prioritizes safety hazards first. If timing is essential, follow up with the listed contact on the report confirmation. [1]

How-To

  1. Find the exact location and take a clear photo of the pothole or encroachment.
  2. Visit the official pothole report page to submit the report, or call Public Works if immediate hazard exists. [1]
  3. If work will affect the right-of-way, consult the permits page and submit a right-of-way permit application before work begins. [2]
  4. Keep copies of permit approvals, plans, and proof of insurance; comply with any inspection or corrective orders.

Key Takeaways

  • Report hazards quickly with photos to help crews act faster.
  • Obtain a right-of-way permit before work that may encroach on sidewalks or streets.
  • Use Public Works contacts for enforcement and follow appeal directions on any formal notice.

Help and Support / Resources

  1. [1] City of Lexington-Fayette report a pothole or street maintenance
  2. [2] City of Lexington-Fayette right-of-way permit information

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