Due to widespread inconsistencies in the location and depth of buried cables, buried pipes and pole lines, these provisions will be standard condition of approval of most all utility permits where there is a right-of-way less than the recommended county thoroughfare plan right-of-way. Plans should reflect these requirements when submitted for permit approval. These requirements are necessary due to the limited right-of-way along many of our county roads and the problems associated with multiple utilities in the right-of-way. The location of poles and guy anchors in the flowline of ditches and the insufficient burial depth of cables and pipes has become a major problem for the County Highway Department when maintaining ditches, shoulders, installing signs and other safety-related items. Where sufficient right-of-way exists, utility locations shall be as shown on the standard detail sheets elsewhere in this manual.
(A) Pole lines. All poles shall be located within one foot of the edge of right-of-way. All new pole installations and guy line locations shall be marked and notification made to the County Engineering Department a minimum of 96 hours before construction begins. Field adjustments shall be made at the Superintendent or County Highway Engineer's request for poles and guy lines presenting drainage and safety problems.
(B) Buried cable and utility lines. All buried cables and utility lines shall be located within two feet of the edge of the right-of-way, with all pedestals being located a distance of two feet from the edge of right-of-way. All cables and utility lines shall be located a minimum of 48 inches below ground level and at least 48 inches below any drainage structure. Any variances shall be requested in writing and have explicit written approval by the County Highway Engineer. This requirement is needed to allow for the installation of signs and guardrail, and the maintenance and reestablishment of roadside ditches. If the permittee does not install his or her cables or lines at this depth, he or she shall waive all rights to damages incurred to his or her lines or cables made by the County Highway Department or its contractors during its routine maintenance activities and the installation of guardrail at hazardous locations.
(C) All permits. Any permittee or permittee's contractor who cuts an underground drain tile, whether or not it appears to be abandoned, shall notify the County Engineering Department immediately upon cutting the tile. The permittee shall then repair the tile as directed by the inspector.
(BC Ord. 1998-4, passed 5-11-98; Am. BC Ord. 1999-37, passed 10- 25-99; Am. BC Ord. 2024-10, passed 8-26-24) Penalty, see § 92.99