UTL-1.02 - Utility Franchises

Purpose

The Franchise Utility Program grants access to the right-of-way by private utility companies, like gas, electricity, and telecommunications, by negotiating and administering franchises and other agreements. These franchises and agreements promote planning, protect neighborhood livability and the public interest, and ensure access to private utility services. The negotiation and development of new and renewed franchises and other right of way agreements create costs for the City, including but not limited to staff, legal, technical, and financial review of applicant qualifications and project scope; and it is desirable to establish a consistent operating procedure. Franchise utilities are currently managed by the Franchise Utility Program within the Community Technology Division of the Bureau of Planning and Sustainability.