Request authorization for sewer access

Types of sewer access authorizations

There are two types of authorizations. 

1. The most common authorization is for activities that fall within a defined time window. See examples of allowed activities. This requires sewer access authorization for a defined time period. 
2. The second type is an annual sewer access authorization. It covers similar activities, but the duration is ongoing on an annual basis. For an annual authorization, the scope of work is defined, and the parties for the work don't change. For example, a franchise utility that does ongoing work throughout the City limits and systemic CCTV inspections after installing new underground utilities can apply for annual access authorization. However, a CCTV company whose scope, client, and location change with each project would not be able to obtain annual access authorization. 

Review time

Processing requests takes up to 10 business days. Please note: Same-day authorization is not possible. Incomplete applications or requests for which insurance documentation is insufficient or incorrect may be returned without processing, delaying the review process. No party may perform access work until the signed and approved agreement is returned.

Cost

There is no cost for a sewer access authorization.

Length of authorization

Environmental Services can only grant authorization for sewer access for the time period of your insurance coverage. For example, if you are requesting authorization to perform work in the sewer for a year, then the insurance certifications you provide with your application must also be for the year. Any changes to your insurance during the approved period of authorization will require a new application and full review process. 

Environmental Services cannot accept insurance from other City work. The insurance certifications you submit with your application must be specific to your request for sewer access authorization.

Weather-dependent authorizations

Projects whose activities require low flow in the system or have other weather-related dependencies should apply for an expected date with a duration that allows a window for work.  This window can only be for so long as the duration on your included insurance. Any window longer than 364 days requires the submission of an "annual permit"

Note: There are NO tracking or reporting of system flow, or discharges, or hydraulic review associated with this process. The City of Portland does not track entries or provide safety or liability oversight. 

If a project needs this information as part of the operation, include a note to that end in your email, and the project will be redirected.

How to apply for sewer access authorization

1. Download and complete the application. Important note: Please use BES asset IDs from portlandmaps.com when you are detailing where and what work you are performing on the form.

2. Include the required insurance certifications.
3. Submit your application packet. Submit the completed application and required insurance certifications in one email to one of the contacts below, based on the type of work for which you need authorized access.
   • Contact for collections system sampling.
   • Contact for collections system scoping, cleaning, confined space entry, and other gravity system access.

If you are uncertain which contact best fits your work, send requests to sewer scoping and/or cleaning.