Each year, the Chicago Department of Transportation (CDOT) oversees hundreds of infrastructure projects across the city, ranging from large-scale, multi-year capital improvements to citywide neighborhood improvements such as sidewalk repairs and street resurfacing. These projects are delivered by both CDOT construction crews and private contractors.

CDOT engineers and technical staff manage each project to ensure work is completed in accordance with contract plans and specifications. They are also responsible for documenting all work and materials to meet the standards of local, state, and federal funding agencies.

Permitting and Use of the Public Way

CDOT’s Permit Office is responsible for issuing permits for the use or work in the public way.  Some of the applications and permits that are attainable through the office are: Athletic Events Applications; Parade Applications; Public Assembly Notifications; Commercial Refuse Containers Permits; Deep Foundation Permits; Driveway Permits; Public Way Opening Permits; and Public Right of Way Use Permits.

Utility Coordination and Excavation Oversight

CDOT’s Office of Underground Coordination (OUC) is responsible for all requests regarding existing utility information and the review/approval of construction work in or adjacent to the Public Way.  This also includes large projects with deep excavations and penetrations, such as foundations (piles, caisson, etc.), earth retention systems or major piping installations.  The OUC also works with the permit office to monitor and coordinate construction projects by public utilities in order to minimize the disruption and maximize the infrastructure benefits for Chicago taxpayers.

811 Chicago is a twenty-four (24) hour service network system established to prevent contractors and private citizens from hitting any existing utility line(s) when digging. This important service helps to ensure public safety and protects utility facilities both in the public way and on private property. 

Public Way Construction Rules and Regulations

CDOT’s Regulations for Openings, Construction, and Repair in the Public Way is a comprehensive manual for contractors, trades, utilities, agencies, and other professionals to plan and execute construction and restoration in Chicago's public way.