Nashua Pothole Reporting and Encroachment Permits

Transportation New Hampshire 4 Minutes Read ยท published March 01, 2026 Flag of New Hampshire

Nashua, New Hampshire property owners, contractors, and residents often need to report road defects or request permission to work in the public right-of-way. This guide explains how to report potholes, when an encroachment permit is required, which city office enforces rules, and practical steps to apply, appeal, or report noncompliance in Nashua.

Report imminent hazards immediately to Public Works so they can be triaged for safety repairs.

When to Report a Pothole

Report potholes that pose a danger to drivers, cyclists, or pedestrians, or that cause repeated damage to vehicles. Include the exact location, description of damage, photos, and whether the pothole affects travel lanes, bike lanes, sidewalks, or parking areas.

Encroachment Permits - Overview

An encroachment permit is typically required to place, build, or perform work within the public right-of-way or on city-owned property (including sidewalks, curbs, and street trees). Common encroachments include temporary construction scaffolding, utility work, excavation, or permanent fixtures that extend beyond private property lines.

Most right-of-way work requires prior approval and may require insurance and bond documentation.

Typical requirements

  • Application for an encroachment or right-of-way permit submitted to the city engineering or public works division.
  • Proof of insurance and performance bond as required by the permit conditions.
  • Traffic control and staging plan for work that affects travel lanes or sidewalks.
  • Restoration requirements to return pavement, sidewalk, or landscaping to city standards after work is complete.

Penalties & Enforcement

Enforcement of pothole repairs and encroachment permit conditions is handled by the City of Nashua Public Works and the Engineering Division, or other designated city offices where applicable. For formal code violations, the city may pursue fines, repair orders, or legal remedies.

  • Fine amounts: not specified on the cited page.
  • Escalation: first offence, repeat, or continuing offences and specific ranges are not specified on the cited page.
  • Non-monetary sanctions: repair or restoration orders, suspension of permit privileges, stop-work orders, or referral to court for injunctive relief or abatement.
  • Enforcer: City of Nashua Public Works and Engineering Division; complaints and inspection requests are handled through the city service or department intake channels listed below.
  • Appeals/review: appeal routes and time limits are not specified on the cited page; follow the department directions for permit denial or enforcement notices and request administrative review where offered.
  • Defences/discretion: permits, emergency repairs, or demonstrable reasonable excuse may be considered; specific statutory defenses are not specified on the cited page.
If you receive a repair order or ticket, document the site with photos and correspondence to preserve evidence for any appeal.

Applications & Forms

The city typically publishes an encroachment/right-of-way permit application and instructions via the Engineering or Public Works office. Fee amounts, form numbers, and submission portals are not specified on the cited page; contact the relevant department for the current application, fee schedule, and submission method.

Action Steps - Report, Apply, and Follow Up

  • Report potholes promptly with exact location and photos to expedite assessment.
  • Apply for an encroachment permit before starting work that uses the public right-of-way; include plans, insurance, and traffic control details.
  • Pay any fees or post bonds as required by the permit; confirm accepted payment methods with the department.
  • If you receive an enforcement notice, read the notice for appeal deadlines and follow the department instructions to request review.

FAQ

Who do I contact to report a pothole in Nashua?
Contact the City of Nashua Public Works or use the city service request portal to report location, size, and provide photos.
Do I need a permit to place scaffolding or a dumpster on the street?
Yes. Placing scaffolding, dumpsters, or other items in the right-of-way generally requires an encroachment or right-of-way permit from the city engineering or public works office.
What if the city does not fix a reported pothole?
If a reported hazard is not addressed, follow up with the department, document the condition, and if necessary request escalation or file a formal complaint per city procedures.

How-To

  1. Gather the exact address or cross-streets, a brief description, and clear photos of the pothole or encroachment location.
  2. For potholes: submit a service request to Public Works via the city portal, phone, or email with your details.
  3. For encroachment: obtain and complete the encroachment/right-of-way permit application from Engineering or Public Works before work begins.
  4. Provide required attachments: insurance certificates, bonds, traffic control plans, and pay any required fees.
  5. After work, follow restoration and inspection instructions; keep records and photos of completed restoration and any department sign-offs.

Key Takeaways

  • Report potholes promptly with location and photos to help Public Works triage repairs.
  • Secure an encroachment permit before work in the right-of-way to avoid enforcement actions.
  • Contact Public Works or Engineering for forms, bonds, and traffic-control requirements.

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