When Work Started Before the Permit Was Approved

The Scenario

To keep a schedule, a crew mobilized and began work in the right-of-way while the permit application was still under review and not yet approved.

The Compliance Issue

Starting work without the required approved permit means the work is not authorized for the public right-of-way, regardless of how good the setup looks.

How It Surfaced

The unauthorized work was identified, and because there was no approved permit, it led to a stop-work situation.

How It Was Resolved

Work stopped until the permit was approved. The delay and rework cost more time than waiting for the approval would have.

How to Prevent It Upstream

The permit is confirmed as approved before mobilizing, and the schedule is built around the approval rather than assuming it. The approved permit is kept on site.

Lessons

• An unapproved permit means the work is not authorized, even if the setup is correct.
• Mobilizing early to save time often costs more through stop-work and rework.
• Confirming approval before mobilizing is the simplest way to avoid this.