It is necessary for both public and private agencies to obtain approval from the Charlotte Department of Transportation (CDOT) before scheduling work that will have an impact on the flow of traffic in the City of Charlotte.  This is necessary to ensure proper construction sequencing, adequate phasing of the TTC plan, and coordination between the many activities that take place in the right-of-way.  Proper coordination is necessary to ensure the safety of pedestrians and motorists and provide the most efficient flow of traffic throughout the City.  

The contractor, utility company, or public agency constructing a minor or major project, or conducting routine maintenance in the public right-of-way shall notify CDOT, prior to start of work, if the following impacts on the roadway facility are to occur:

• Closing a travel lane on a thoroughfare during peak hours
• Closing more than one lane in one direction on a thoroughfare
• Closing all lanes in one direction on a thoroughfare
• Closing more than one lane of a one-way street
• Closing sidewalks on both sides of the street
• Anytime work is performed in the Central Business District

Mobile operations (see Section 16) are generally exempt from the requirement to notify CDOT provided that the contractor coordinates with other users.

The advanced notification period required prior to the beginning of work is five working days, except for a Road Closure.  The advanced notification period for a Road Closure is ten working days.  These notification periods do not include the plan approval time when plan approval is necessary.   

For major construction projects and emergency road closures, contact the Implementation Section at 704.336.7086.  For all other projects and routine maintenance work, contact the Right-of-way Management Section at 704.432.1562.

In emergency situations, weekends, holidays, or after normal business hours, the Police Department should be contacted (911) while the contractor is securing the site.  The Police Department will be responsible for notifying the appropriate CDOT staff.

All required agreements and permits from various City agencies must be in place before commencing work.  These required documents may include encroachment agreements, road closure agreements, right-of-way use permits, building permits, driveway permits, and street cut permits amongst others.