Construction Access Permit

 Frequently Asked Questions
 Construction Access Permit Application (59k DOC)

Frequently Asked Questions

A. What is a Construction Access Permit?
A Construction Access Permit is a written permit authorizing certain work to be done within VTA's Light Rail System, bus facilities (bus stops, concrete pads, shelters, etc.), properties or facilities.

B. When Is A Construction Access Permit Required?
A Construction Access Permit must be obtained prior to commencing any underground, overhead, or surface work within 10' of the nearest rail of VTA's Light Rail System, including the catenary system, or within VTA properties or facilities.

Examples of work requiring a Construction Access Permit are listed below but are not limited to the following:

• Installation of underground or overhead facilities.
• Performing any work over, under or within VTA property. Some examples of VTA properties and facilities are as follows: Cerone Division, North Division, River Oaks Division, Guadalupe Division, Chaboya Division, park and ride lots, transit centers, bus stops, etc.
• Temporarily placing or storing materials on VTA properties or facilities.
• Excavating or boring (directional boring or jack and boring) across VTA's Communication System Ducts (CSDs), Light Rail System or properties.
• Excavating (trenching) through an existing VTA concrete bus stop pad.

C. How Do I Apply?
Construction Permit Applications must be submitted to VTA's Permit and Utility Locating Services, located in Building B, on the 2nd Floor, at 3331 N. 1st Street, San Jose, CA 95134.

D. How Is The Application Processed?
VTA representatives will review and evaluate the application and the submitted information. The evaluation process will include review by several Departments within VTA, the number of which will be determined by the scope of work.

E. How Long Does The Process Take?
After VTA has received a complete application, a Construction Access Permit is typically issued in less than two weeks. However, if additional information is required from the applicant or depending on the scope of the project, this time frame may be extended.

F. How Much Will A Construction Access Permit Cost?
The permit application, plan check and inspection fee will depend on the type and scope of work. Please contact a Permit and Utility Locating Services representative for information regarding permit fees and the current fee schedule.

G. How Does A Restricted Access Permit Differ From A Construction Access Permit?
A Restricted Access Permit is required anytime workers, or their equipment, will be or will have the potential to be within 10' of the Light Rail Tracks/System or over/under the catenary system. Because of safety and rail operation concerns, in addition to a Construction Access Permit, a Restricted Access Permit is required.

All workers are required to complete an Operations Control Center (OCC) Safety Training Class. Call OCC at (408) 546-7608.

Please do not submit applications for a Restricted Access Permit to the Permits & Utility Locating Services.

Contact OCC at (408) 546-7608 for information on how to apply for a Restricted Access Permit.

H. Do You Have Additional Questions?
Please call (408) 321-5856 to speak with a VTA Permit & Utility Locating Services representative or fax your inquires to (408) 321-7569.

Contact Information:
Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA)
Construction Division
Permit And Utility Locating Services
3331 N. First Street, 2nd Floor, Bldg. B
San Jose, CA 95134
Tel. (408) 321-5856 Fax (408) 321-7569
http://www.vta.org

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Permit Application

Construction Access Permit Application (59k DOC)

Please Submit Application Package to:
Santa Clara Valley Transportation Authority (VTA)
Construction Division
Permit And Utility Locating Services
3331 N. First Street, 2nd Floor, Bldg. B
San Jose, CA 95134
Tel. (408) 321-5856 Fax (408) 321-7569

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