643.1 Utility Location

Forms

● Utility Variance Approval Form

The information in this article provides a uniform system for regulating the location, construction, maintenance, removal, and relocation of utility facilities on the right of way of roadways located on the state highway system. It also provides for the facilitation of construction and maintenance of these roadways. Any location or relocation of utility facilities contrary to this information is an interference with the construction, maintenance, or operation of a state highway and its right of way and is prohibited.

643.1.1 Permits

All utility owners are required to obtain a permit to work on Missouri Highway and Transportation Commission (Commission) right of way. A permit is required for original installation of the utility facility, on-going maintenance of the utility facility, or adjustments to a utility facility necessary to allow highway construction. Per EPG 127.29.4.3, discharges of anything other than stormwater are not permitted. A deposit or bond is required to ensure completion of the work in accordance with the permit issued. An application for a permit may be made on established forms specifically stating the nature of the work to be performed. Applications for permits may be obtained at any of the seven (7) district highway offices of the Commission, MoDOT's website, or by requesting it from the office of the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission in Jefferson City, Missouri. The application for a permit will specifically state the nature of the work to be performed, what specific type of utility facility is to be installed, and, if necessary, the timeframe of any temporary use. Piping of any type of sewage or waste will only be allowed providing any permitting by a regulatory agency, such as Missouri Department of Natural Resources, can be provided. Prior to obtaining a permit through MoDOT’s permit system, a utility owner will be required to provide a bond to ensure satisfactory work and complete a TR50 Electronic Signature Agreement with the Commission. The name of the utility owner must match on the bond, TR50, and in the permit system. More information on permitting can be found in EPG 941.

643.1.1.1 Emergency Work

When emergency operations work is necessary, the damaged utility facility may be accessed immediately and without a permit by leaving the pavement at such points as may be necessary to effect emergency repairs, provided immediate notice is given to the Missouri State Highway Patrol and the district utilities staff for the district wherein the work will be performed, and a permit for emergency operations is requested immediately upon discovery of the need for emergency operations. A permit for emergency operations work is to be obtained as soon as practical, but in no event later than two (2) working days after the emergency operations work has commenced. Emergency operations include, but are not limited to, unplanned work in response to utility facilities being so damaged as to constitute an emergency situation directly affecting or endangering traffic on the highway or public health or safety.

643.1.1.2 Third-Party Inspection

When a utility owner has a large number of projects in a given area or projects involving great complexity, MoDOT reserves the right to limit the number of permits open at any given time. With approval of the district utilities staff, a utility owner may hire a third-party inspector, at their cost. The third-party inspector will allow the utility owner to increase the number of permits open at any given time. The responsibility of the third-party inspector will be to ensure the installation of the utility facility proceeds in a manner consistent with the plans approved in the permit, including all work zone requirements and conformity with MoDOT’s Standards and Specifications. The MoDOT approved third-party inspector will be listed in the permit. MoDOT may audit third-party inspections and revoke the right to use third-party inspections should the inspectors fail to perform their duties.

643.1.1.3 Abandoned Utility Facilities

All utility facilities installed in Commission right of way are the property of the utility owner whether the utility facility is active or inactive. MoDOT may allow a utility facility to remain on Commission right of way whether the utility facility was abandoned for a MoDOT project or at the utility owner’s discretion. MoDOT may place requirements (such as removing inactive fiber optic cables, grouting pipes, removing valves) on the utility owner as part of the process of abandoning a utility facility. Liability for damage to Commission right of way due to an abandoned facility remains the responsibility of the utility owner. In the event MoDOT requires the removal of the abandoned utility facility, responsibility for the cost of the removal will be determined per EPG 643.2.8.

643.1.2 Definitions

Bridge Attachment: A bridge attachment is any utility facility, including communication lines and electrical lines, or any other utility facility of a similar nature that is fastened to a bridge for the purpose of spanning an obstacle.

Clear zone: The total roadside border area starting at the edge of the traveled way, available for safe use by errant vehicles. This area may consist of a shoulder, a recoverable slope, a non-recoverable slope, and/or the area at the toe of a non-recoverable slope available for safe use by an errant vehicle. Clear zone dimensions are provided in the current edition of American Association of State Highway Transportation Officials Roadside Design Guide.

Ditch Line: A line where the roadway ditch meets the back slope. It is located at the lowest point of a V-bottom ditch or furthest point from the roadway of a flat bottom ditch where the roadway slopes back to the existing ground line.

Duct: An enclosed tubular casing, or raceway, for protecting wires, lines, or cables that is often flexible or semi-rigid (1-3% diametric deflection). The casing, or raceway, is separate from the cable or conductor that passes through it.

Encasement: The term encasement means the placing of an installation around and outside of an underground facility consisting of a larger conduit that permits the removal and replacement of the facility. An alternate to the conduit type encasement is reinforced concrete poured around the utility facility. Utility owners are allowed to use any types of material as a carrier and encasement for its facilities as expressly provided for in the permit issued for the installation of the utility facility.

Freeway: A divided arterial highway with full control of access.

Highway: Any public way for vehicular travel, including the entire area within the right of way and related facilities constructed or improved and maintained by the Missouri Highways and Transportation Commission (MHTC) acting through the Missouri Department of Transportation (MoDOT).

Interchange Limits: For the uniform handling of utility installations only, the limits of an interchange are the outside ramp curve points. See EPG Figure 643.1.1 for an example.

Interstate System or Other Freeways/Expressways: Interstate highways and highways with fully controlled access.

Major Routes (Interstates, Freeways/Expressways and Principal Arterials): The major highway system is all routes functionally classified as principal arterials. The principal arterial system provides for statewide or interstate movement of traffic. The major roads in Missouri total approximately 5,500 centerline miles.

Minor Routes: The minor highway system is all routes functionally classified as minor arterials or collectors. These routes mainly serve local transportation needs. The minor roads in Missouri total approximately 28,400 centerline miles.

Normal Right of Way Line: An imaginary line that connects sudden breaks in the major right of way points for roadways. Sight distance right of way points (triangles) at roadway intersections are not to be considered as sudden breaks for determining normal right of way.

Figure 643.1.2 Normal Right of Way Line.

Private Lines: Privately owned utility facilities which convey or transmit the commodities outlined in the definition of utility facility of this section but devoted exclusively to private use.

Scenic Enhancement Areas: Scenic enhancement areas include areas acquired or so designated as scenic strips, overlooks, rest areas, recreation areas, and the right of way of adjacent roadways and the right of way of roadways that pass through public parks and historic sites as described under 23 USC 138.

Utility Corridor: An area established for the placement of utility facilities parallel to the normal right of way line.

Utility Facility: Privately, publicly, or cooperatively owned line, facility, or system for producing, transmitting, or distributing communications, cable television, power, electricity, light, heat, gas, oil, crude products, water, steam, waste, storm water not connected with highway drainage or any other similar commodity, including any fire or police signal system or street lighting system which directly or indirectly serves the public and does not include privately owned facilities devoted exclusively to private use. The term "utility facility" includes those facilities used solely by the utility owner that are a part of its operating plant.

Utility Owner: The utility owner is the utility company, inclusive of any wholly owned or controlled subsidiary, or city or county which owns utility facilities. The term also includes those government agencies that lease a utility facility for its own use or otherwise dedicated solely to governmental use.

Variance: A one- (1-) time deviation from the requirements for location or relocation of utility facilities on the right of way of highways in the state highway system as established in Title 7 Code of State Regulations 10-3, requested by the utility, and approved by a MoDOT District Design Engineer.

643.1.3 Location of Utility Facilities

Utility facilities paralleling the roadway should be installed in the utility corridor except as outlined below. The utility corridor is the space for all utility owners generally within six feet (6’) of the normal right of way line. When considering if the current utility corridor is available to expand from six feet (6’) to as much as twelve feet (12’), MoDOT determines if the expansion is warranted. In making the determination, MoDOT will consider the existing utilization of the original six feet (6’) corridor. Poles must remain within two feet (2’) of the normal right of way line unless approved by a variance. The utility corridor will only be expanded beyond six feet (6’) if the original six feet (6’) corridor is fully utilized and additional space would be required to accommodate additional utility facilities. Acquisition of additional right of way to establish a twelve feet (12’) corridor is not required on highway construction projects. For depths for underground utility facilities, see EPG 643.1.4.1.

Utility facilities crossing the roadway should be installed as close to ninety degrees (90°) to the centerline of the roadway as possible and based on the guidelines below depending on the type of roadway. See EPG Figure 643.1.3 and EPG Figure 643.1.4 for typical utility corridors around interchanges.

643.1.3.1 Interstate System or Other Major Freeways/Expressways

The installation of all utility facilities on highways of the Interstate System or other major freeways/expressways with fully controlled access are to be installed, serviced, and maintained without entering or leaving the roadway and ramps except at points approved by MoDOT for that purpose and without parking any equipment or storing materials upon the medians, roadway and ramps, or shoulders of the roadways. Cutting or damaging the pavement or paved shoulders is not permitted. New service connections to existing parallel utility facilities are to be permitted only where an outer roadway exists and then only where access is permitted by the Commission. Careful consideration will be given to the location of guys, anchors, braces, and other supports. Generally, good design practice will provide that appurtenances be located at right of way jogs, along intersecting road right of way, or at other similar acceptable locations, so that encroachment is held to an absolute minimum.

No utility facilities will be permitted within the interchange limits of an interchange between fully limited access highways where planned or existing. Utility facilities within the interchange limits of an interchange with a non-access controlled highway will be permitted only along the minor road, provided that all construction, service, and maintenance can be performed from the minor road. Manholes and poles must be located beyond the ramp termini.

For structures carrying or over interstates or other major freeways/expressways, see EPG 643.1.5.

643.1.3.1.1 Utility Facilities Crossing the Interstate or Other Major Freeways/Expressways

643.1.3.1.1.1 Overhead Crossings of the Interstate or Other Major Freeways/Expressways

Overhead crossings of utility facilities are permitted only for power transmission and distribution lines and for multiple circuit communication lines where an underground installation is not economically feasible. Supports for existing utility facilities crossing overhead may remain on the right of way provided they are near the right of way line regardless of the presence of an outer road. Supports for new overhead utility facilities crossing overhead may be located on the right of way near the right of way line where an outer roadway exists and are to be located off the right of way where no outer roadway exists. Overhead service crossings are only permitted in isolated cases for residential or commercial establishments when the denial of the crossing would require construction of more than 1,200 feet (1,200’) of utility line to provide the service. Main or distribution line crossings are required to serve a general area other than isolated cases.

643.1.3.1.1.2 Underground Crossings of the Interstate or Other Major Freeways/Expressways

Underground crossings of utility facilities are to be continuously encased under the pavement, medians, ramps, and shoulders with the casing extending to the toe of the fill slopes or to the ditch line. In curbed sections, encasement should extend outside the outer curb of the roadways a distance equal to the depth of the encasement at the curb line. Where installed by open trench through unpaved areas, detector tape should be placed approximately one foot (1') above the encasement. Where an interstate or other major freeway has a parallel outer roadway, encasement should be continuous under all roadways within the right of way.

Manholes or vent pipes are to be located at the right of way line or adjacent to the outer roadway.

For fiber optic cable, encasement should extend from within six feet (6') of one right of way line to within six feet (6') of the other right of way line.

Exceptions may be made for encasement as listed in EPG 643.1.4.2.

643.1.3.1.2 Parallel Installations along the Interstate or Other Major Freeways/Expressways

New parallel installations on the right of way may be permitted only where an outer roadway exists, provided that poles are within two feet (2') of the normal right of way line and underground utility facilities are within the utility corridor, and provided that the utility facility can be installed and maintained between the outer roadway and the right of way line. Existing overhead or underground utility facilities that parallel an existing roadway which will be incorporated into a completed highway as an outer roadway may remain in place if all maintenance and service can be performed from an outer roadway and the existing location does not interfere with construction, maintenance, or operation of the completed highway. If an existing parallel utility facility needs to be relocated so as to not interfere with the construction, maintenance, or operation of the completed interstate or other major freeway, poles may be located withing five feet (5’) of the right of way line.

Underground utility facilities are expected to be buried within the utility corridor of sight distance triangles (SDTs) at roadway intersections unless granted a variance. Overhead utility facilities may be allowed to span intersecting roadways with SDTs provided the poles, or supports, are located outside the SDT.

643.1.3.1.3 Sanitary Sewers within the Right of Way of Interstates or Other Major Freeways/Expressways

New installations of sanitary sewers should follow the applicable guidelines for either underground crossings or parallel installations as appropriate. Existing gravity trunk sanitary sewers should be considered individually and removed or left in place contingent upon its age, condition, feasibility of moving, and maintenance access. Encasement of existing trunk sewers left in place may be required for questionable condition, protection during construction, or heavy fills.

Manholes should be relocated to the right of way lines or adjacent to an outer roadway.

643.1.3.2 Major Routes

For structures carrying or over major routes, see EPG 643.1.5.

643.1.3.2.1 Major Routes with Partially Controlled Access Right of Way

The installation of all utility facilities on highways with partially controlled access right of way are to be installed, serviced, and maintained without entering or leaving the roadway and ramps except at points approved by MoDOT for that purpose and without parking any equipment or storing materials upon the medians, roadway and ramps, or shoulders of the roadways. Cutting or damaging the pavement or paved shoulders is not permitted. Equipment or materials stored within the right of way must be protected by longitudinal barrier or be located outside the clear zone. New service connections to existing parallel utility facilities are to be permitted only where granted by the Commission.

No utility facilities will be permitted within the interchange limits of an interchange between fully limited access highways where planned or existing. Utility facilities within the interchange limits of an interchange with a non-access controlled highway will be permitted only along the minor road, provided that all construction, service, and maintenance can be performed from the minor road. Manholes and poles must be located beyond the ramp termini.

643.1.3.2.2 Major Routes with Normal Access Right of Way

All new utility facilities will be installed and maintained without cutting or damaging the pavement or paved shoulders except in the event underlying rock formations or other obstructions are encountered that prevent boring or pushing operations. A variance may be granted for pavement cuts when the need is established. Pavement cuts may only be made by permits issued when it is impractical to otherwise service and maintain the facility. The installation of all utility facilities is to be installed without parking any equipment or storing materials upon the medians, roadway and ramps, or shoulders of the roadways. Equipment or materials stored within the right of way must be protected by longitudinal barrier or be located outside the clear zone.

643.1.3.2.3 Utility Facilities Crossing Major Routes

643.1.3.2.3.1 Overhead Crossings of Major Routes

Supports for utility facilities crossing overhead should be located as near the right of way line as possible. For major routes with controlled access right of way, new overhead service crossings may be permitted in isolated cases for residential or commercial establishments where the denial of such crossings would require the construction of more than 1,200 feet (1,200’) of utility line to provide the same service. For major routes with normal access right of way, there is no restriction on the placement of service crossings.

643.1.3.2.3.2 Underground Crossings of Major Routes

Underground crossings of utility facilities are to be continuously encased under the pavement, medians, ramps, and shoulders with the casing extending to the toe of the fill slopes or to the ditch line. In curbed sections, encasement should extend outside the outer curb of the roadways a distance equal to the depth of the encasement at the curb line. Where installed by open trench through unpaved areas, detector tape should be placed approximately one foot (1') above the encasement. Where a major route has a parallel outer roadway, encasement should be continuous under all roadways within the right of way.

Manholes or vent pipes are to be located at the right of way line or adjacent to the outer roadway.

For fiber optic cable, encasement should extend from within six feet (6') of one right of way line to within six feet (6') of the other right of way line.

Exceptions may be made for encasement as listed in EPG 643.1.4.2.

643.1.3.2.4 Parallel Installations along Major Routes

New parallel installations on the right of way may be permitted provided that poles are within two feet (2') of the normal right of way line and underground utility facilities are within the utility corridor. Existing overhead or underground utility facilities that parallel an existing roadway which will be incorporated into a completed highway may remain in place if all maintenance and service can be performed without entering or leaving the roadway except at approved access points; without parking equipment or storing materials on the median, pavement, ramps, or shoulders; and the existing location does not interfere with construction, maintenance, or operation of the completed highway. If an existing parallel utility facility needs to be relocated so as to not interfere with the construction, maintenance, or operation of the completed highway, poles may be located withing five feet (5’) of the right of way line.

Existing steel pipe transmission and distribution facilities for gaseous petroleum products that parallel an existing roadway that will be incorporated into the completed roadway may be left in place subject to an agreement by the utility owner that maintenance or service and facility expansion will be performed without cutting or damaging the pavement or interfering with the construction, maintenance, and operation of the highway and provided that the facility is cathodically protected against corrosion and meets the applicable material requirements.

Underground utility facilities are expected to be buried within the utility corridor of sight distance triangles (SDTs) at roadway intersections unless granted a variance. Overhead utility facilities may be allowed to span intersecting roadways with SDTs provided the poles, or supports, are located outside the SDT.

643.1.3.2.5 Sanitary Sewers within the Right of Way of Major Routes

New installations of sanitary sewers should follow the applicable guidelines for either underground crossings or parallel installations as appropriate. An existing gravity trunk sanitary sewer should be considered individually and removed or left in place contingent upon its age, condition, feasibility of moving, and maintenance access. If an existing parallel gravity main is left in place within the limits of the paved surface, paved shoulder lines, or curb lines, stub mains as required will be laid between the sewer main and curb or shoulder lines for future service connections in each block. Manholes should be relocated outside the traveled roadway as near the right of way line as practical.

643.1.3.3 Minor Routes

For structures carrying or over minor routes, see EPG 643.1.5.

643.1.3.3.1 Utility Facilities Crossing Minor Routes

643.1.3.3.1.1 Overhead Crossings of Minor Routes

Existing overhead crossings that interfere with construction, maintenance, or operation should be relocated with their supports as near the right of way line as is practical. New overhead crossing installations should be located with their supports as near the right of way line as is practical.

643.1.3.3.1.2 Underground Crossings of Minor Routes

All new utility facilities should be installed and maintained without cutting or damaging the pavement or paved shoulders. A variance may be granted for pavement cuts when servicing and maintaining the facility by any other methods is impractical. Pavement cuts may only be made by permits issued. Underground crossings of utility facilities are to be continuously encased under the pavement, medians, ramps, and shoulders with the casing extending to the toe of the fill slopes or to the ditch line. In curbed sections, encasement should extend outside the outer curb of the roadways a distance equal to the depth of the encasement at the curb line. Where installed by open trench through unpaved areas, detector tape should be placed approximately one foot (1') above the encasement.

Manholes or vent pipes are to be located at the right of way line or adjacent to the outer roadway.

For fiber optic cable, encasement should extend from within six feet (6') of one right of way line to within six feet (6') of the other right of way line.

Exceptions may be made for encasement as listed in EPG 643.1.4.2.

643.1.3.3.2 Parallel Installations along Minor Routes

New parallel installations on the right of way may be permitted provided that poles are within two feet (2') of the normal right of way line and underground utility facilities are within the utility corridor. Existing overhead or underground utility facilities that parallel an existing roadway which will be incorporated into a completed highway may remain in place if all maintenance and service can be performed without entering or leaving the roadway except at approved access points; without parking equipment or storing materials on the median, pavement, ramps, or shoulders; and the existing location does not interfere with construction, maintenance, or operation of the completed highway. If an existing parallel utility facility needs to be relocated so as to not interfere with the construction, maintenance, or operation of the completed highway, poles may be located within five feet (5’) of the right of way line.

Underground utility facilities are expected to be buried within the utility corridor of sight distance triangles (SDTs) at roadway intersections unless granted a variance. Overhead utility facilities may be allowed to span intersecting roadways with SDTs provided the poles, or supports, are located outside the SDT.

643.1.3.3.3 Sanitary Sewers within the Right of Way of Minor Routes

New installations of sanitary sewers should follow the applicable guidelines for either underground crossings or parallel installations as appropriate. An existing gravity trunk sanitary sewer should be considered individually and removed or left in place contingent upon its age, condition, feasibility of moving, and maintenance access. If an existing parallel gravity main is left in place within the limits of the paved surface, paved shoulder lines, or curb lines, stub mains as required will be laid between the sewer main and curb or shoulder lines for future service connections in each block. Manholes should be relocated outside the traveled roadway.

643.1.3.4 Roundabouts

Regardless of roadway type, it is desirable to avoid locating utility facilities and their access points within the circulatory roadway. If possible, utility facilities are located in the legs of the roundabout to allow for future maintenance and access at an isolated leg versus affecting the entire roundabout. See EPG Figure 643.1.5 for an example.

643.1.3.5 Utility Facilities in Scenic Enhancement Areas

All existing utility facilities within the limits of a scenic enhancement area requiring adjustment because of construction or reconstruction will be placed underground or relocated beyond the limits of the scenic enhancement area. No new above ground facilities will be permitted. New underground facilities will be permitted provided they do not extensively alter or impair the appearance of the area.

643.1.4 Installation of Utility Facilities

The following sections provide information on the physical installation of utility facilities within highway right of way.

643.1.4.1 Minimum Cover for Underground Facilities

The minimum cover for new underground utilities is:

• Forty-two inches (42”) for all water lines (parallel and crossings).
• Forty-two inches (42”) for fiber optic cable (crossings encased in rigid conduit).
• Seventy-two inches (72”) for fiber optic cable (crossings encased in polyethylene (PE) pipe).
• Thirty inches (30”) for direct burial and in trench fiber optic cable (parallel).
• Twenty-four inches (24”) for all other direct burial copper or coaxial cable, (parallel).
• Seventy-two inches (72”) for uncased polyethylene (PE) gas pipe crossings under ditches and roadways but thirty inches (30”) elsewhere.
• Thirty inches (30”) for all other (such as, but not limited to, gravity sewers, forced sewers, and electric) underground utilities (both parallel and crossing).

643.1.4.2 Exceptions to Encasement

Exceptions may be made for encasement as follows:

• Non-fiber communication or electric cables installed in ducts.
• Welded steel pipelines carrying gaseous or liquid petroleum products - provided they are cathodically protected against corrosion, triple-coated in accordance with accepted pipeline construction standards, and meet applicable material requirements.
• Natural gas distribution pipe (nominal six-inch (6”) diameter maximum) of polyethylene (PE) plastic, traceable, installed by a horizontal bore method at a minimum depth of seventy-two inches (72”) under ditches and roadways, constructed in accordance with and meeting applicable material requirements.
• Gas service connections protected and constructed in accordance with and meeting applicable material requirements.
• Encasement is not required for new trunk sanitary sewer crossings of vitrified clay, reinforced concrete or cast iron except when installation procedures would produce voids in the roadbed, heavy fills, or installations under pressure.

643.1.4.3 Above Ground or Ground Level Appurtenances

Appurtenances protruding more than four inches (4”) above the ground line should be located outside the clear zone. If no feasible alternative exists and if permitted by a variance, appurtenances may be allowed within the clear zone if they meet breakaway criteria or will be shielded by a traffic barrier. Good design practice will provide that appurtenances be located at right of way jogs, along intersecting road right of way, or at other similar acceptable locations, so that encroachment is held to an absolute minimum. Cables, wires, small diameter pipes, and other such utility appurtenances extending from the surface of the ground should be equipped with covers or guards to improve their visibility. Appurtenances within sidewalks or street level pedestrian access routes are to be in conformance with the Americans with Disabilities Act requirements.

The maximum pull box width perpendicular to the right of way line within the utility corridor is thirty inches (30”).

643.1.4.4 Overhead Utility Facilities

The vertical clearance of new or existing overhead installations will not be less than the current minimum requirements of the National Electric Safety Code, but in no case less than eighteen feet (18’) inclusive of sag above the groundline for electrical facilities. Clearance may be reduced for overhead installations of cable, telephone, or fiber optic facilities. A minimum radial clearance of twenty-five feet (25’) is provided from any utility facility to the nearest part of any bridge structure. A minimum radial clearance of ten feet (10’) is provided from the nearest charged electrical line to a MoDOT signal, lighting, ITS, or overhead sign structure.

643.1.4.5 Approved Materials

Utility owners are allowed to use any material for underground utility facilities including carrier and encasement provided they accept responsibility for any future repairs and/or replacement of damaged MoDOT facilities should a failure occur. This will allow the use of current technology and procedures to provide the best value to its subscribers and the taxpayers of Missouri. For materials that MoDOT also uses in its highway system, utility owners must provide materials that meet the current Missouri Standard Specifications for Highway Construction. For materials not listed in the Missouri Standard Specifications for Highway Construction, the utility owner should provide documentation of the standards used to determine suitability of the material.

643.1.4.6 Cutting

In the event permission is granted to cut an existing concrete or asphalt pavement or sidewalk, the appropriate provisions below should be followed.

643.1.4.6.1 Pavement

All pavement cuts should be made with a saw to the full depth of the pavement. The width of the cut is typically determined by the width of the trench plus a minimum one foot (1’) on each side of the trench. In the event the distance to any adjacent longitudinal or transverse joint or crack is less than four feet (4’), the pavement must be removed to the joint or crack. Cuts for perpendicular service tie-ins should be a minimum of three feet (3’) wide. Longitudinal main installations are typically cut at a minimum of half the lane width, but in no instance should the cut be along the wheel path of the lane.

Figure 643.1.6 Pavement Repair Dimension Requirements.

The utility facilities should be placed in a location with the least impact to the roadway. Typically, this leads to placement in the shoulder when available followed by the two-way left turn lane (TWLTL), and then outside lanes before allowing placement in interior through lanes. Lane switching should be kept to a minimum and should not be used to minimize repair sizes. Cuts for mains or service leads that may not be perpendicular to the roadway should be squared-off.

Replacement of cut pavement should be full depth concrete in accordance with the current version at the time of installation of Section 613.10 Full Depth Pavement Repairs of the Missouri Standard Specifications for Highway Construction and the Missouri Standard Plans for Highway Construction. If the area of the pavement repair is not to be fully resurfaced all joints including the overcut from the sawing operation should be filled with an expansive mortar, epoxy, polyester, or joint material as approved by the Engineer in accordance with Section 1057 of the Missouri Standard Specifications for Highway Construction.

643.1.4.6.2 Pedestrian Access Routes

All cuts in the pedestrian access routes whether asphalt or concrete should be made by saw and be the full depth of the material. Entire slabs of concrete sidewalk should be removed. Repair of the pedestrian access route must meet Americans with Disability Act requirements, see EPG 642. Cuts through curb ramps or detectable warning areas are not permitted. Rather the entire curb ramp or detectable warning area must be removed and replaced. MoDOT district ADA contacts can help ensure ADA compliance of impacted pedestrian access routes.

643.1.4.7 Non-disturbance Areas

MoDOT has certain areas of right of way where mowing, spraying, digging, or other vegetation disturbance activities are restricted. These areas have been established to mitigate the environmental impacts of a previous project and should be avoided. If the areas cannot be avoided, contact MoDOT’s Environmental Section.

643.1.5 Bridge Attachment Policy

No utility facility will be permitted in or on a structure carrying an interstate or other freeway unless it is part of a federal requirement or for MoDOT’s use. When the structure carries any other road type and no other practical means exists for the crossing, wires (communication, electrical, fiber, or metal) will be permitted. Electrical lines must be located to cause minimum exposure to MoDOT maintenance personnel and the public. Pressurized pipelines for gas or other petroleum products and water and all sewer lines are prohibited on all structures due to the risks associated with their failure.

643.1.5.1 Agreement

An agreement is required for all utility facilities attached to any structure. A charge will be made for the increased maintenance costs involved. This fee is set by the Bridge Division. When permitted, a 50-year occupational agreement is executed with the utility owner. Agreement BR04 Utility Attachment Agreement is used when an attachment is added to a bridge during its construction. Agreement BR09 Bridge Attachment Agreement is used when an attachment is added to an existing bridge.

643.1.5.2 Requests

Requests to attach facilities to structures is a multi-step process. Bridge Division is responsible for approval of the bridge attachment. If at any point in the process, Bridge Division determines the attachment to be unacceptable, a reason is to be provided.

To start, the utility owner submits a conceptual request to the district utilities staff. The conceptual request consists of an explanation of the proposal; a general location sketch (i.e., which side of the bridge); and details on the facility, length, and weight per foot when full. The district utilities staff should work with all relevant district personnel including the District Bridge Engineer in reviewing and recommending the attachment. The district utilities staff will submit the recommended details to the Bridge Division to determine the applicable costs including future maintenance costs and for attachments to new bridges, design and construction. Once the Bridge Division has determined the cost, the district utilities staff shares the cost with the utility owner for their concurrence with furthering the process. For new bridges, if the utility owner concurs with the costs, the district utility staff will prepare the BR04 Agreement for execution by the utility owner and the Commission. MoDOT will be responsible for the design and construction of attachments to new bridges. For existing bridges, the district utilities staff will forward the applicable as-built bridge plans to the utility owner for its use in designing the bridge attachment. The utility owner will provide detailed design drawings, signed and sealed by a professional engineer in the State of Missouri, to the district utilities staff for review. The district utilities staff should work with all relevant district personnel, including the District Bridge Engineer, in reviewing and recommending the details of the attachment to the Bridge Division. Once Bridge Division approves, the Bridge Division will prepare the BR09 Agreement for execution by the utility owner and the Commission. The utility owner is responsible for the construction of attachments to existing bridges. A flow chart, EPG Figure 643.1.7, of the process is available.

Payment from the utility owner for the attachment will be sent to Financial Services by district utilities staff. For BR04 agreements, district utilities staff should discuss with Financial Services how to get the payment credited to the project constructing the attachment. For BR09 agreements, district utilities staff should copy Bridge Division on correspondence with Financial Serves. Checks should be made payable to Director of Revenue, Credit State Road Fund.

For requests from government entities such as cities, counties, and other municipalities, the requested information should be submitted to Bridge Division as described above. However, the district utilities staff will take the lead in preparing the DE10 County Agreement or DE11 Municipal Agreement, as applicable, with input from Bridge Division and Bridge Maintenance. All fees are waived for government entities.

643.1.5.3 Considerations

The following considerations are made in determining the acceptability of a bridge attachment. Unique situations will be discussed with the Bridge Division as required.

643.1.5.3.1 Bridge Asset Management Program

Requests for bridge attachments should be reviewed for consistency with the district’s upcoming bridge asset management program needs. If a structure is due for rehabilitation or replacement in the near future, information should be provided to the utility owner indicating existing remaining life of the bridge. In some instances, it may be in MoDOT’s best interest to deny the request for attachment outright. In some instances, the utility owner may still choose to pursue the short-term attachment to the existing structure. In almost all cases, the utility owner is responsible for the cost of removing and/or relocating their utility facilities for a necessary repair, widening, improvement or reconstruction of the structure. Review existing agreements for cost responsibility for current attachments.

643.1.5.3.2 Aesthetics

In reviewing a request for a bridge attachment, how the structure is viewed by the public will be considered. For example, is the structure over a scenic stream that is extensively used by canoeists, or does the structure span a road that may provide access to a park, campgrounds, or boat launching facilities? Is the structure a grade separation where the motoring public will see the attachment before they pass under it?

643.1.5.3.3 Method of Attachment

In order to maintain structural integrity of any structures the following requirements will apply for attachments.

643.1.5.3.3.1 Welding

Welding of hardware to structural steel members (i.e., flanges, webs, stiffeners, and diaphragms) whether in tension or compression is not permitted.

643.1.5.3.3.2 Drilling

Drilling holes in any structural steel member is not permitted. Drilling holes for anchors into any prestressed concrete member is not permitted. Although permitted, drilling holes for anchors into the underside of bridge decks must be done with caution. It is recommended all anchors be installed to miss deck reinforcing steel. Generally, drilling into decks will not be allowed where sonotubes were used (voided slab bridges). The depth of the holes should be such that breaking out of the concrete on the top side of the deck does not occur.

643.1.5.3.3.3 Corrosion

Attachment hardware will be new, properly coated to prevent corrosion or be of a non-corrosive material, and be designed to support the facility.

643.1.5.3.4 Location

In general, attachments are made on the underneath side of the bridge deck. The condition of the bridge deck will dictate the location of the attachment supports. An exception may be attachments to trusses or other overhead structures.

Attachments that may require manholes in bridge decks are not allowed.

When attachments are required to structures over streams that may carry large drifts, they must be attached to the downstream side of the structure and above the lowest superstructure element. It is preferred to locate the attachment on the outside of the exterior girder. If aesthetics are a concern, a better appearance can be achieved by having the attachment made to the inside of the exterior girder and above the bottom of the lower flange to hide the conduit and the attaching hardware.

Placement of utilities must not prevent the removal of old paint, the application of new paint on superstructure steel, or cause debris buildup, which could cause structural deterioration.

643.1.5.3.5 Construction and Maintenance

If the attachment cannot be built while maintaining one (1) lane of traffic on the structure, it will not be allowed.

Construction procedures that severely impact traffic may factor into the allowable location of the attachment on the structure.

When scaffolding is to be attached or supported by bridge rails, bridge superstructure, or bridge substructure, the procedures for construction of the attachment must be reviewed.

The utility owner or local entity will pay for, or be responsible for, the painting of the attachment, if necessary, when the bridge requires painting.

643.1.6 Private Lines

Private lines are permitted to cross the right of way of a highway in the same manner as outlined for all utility facilities in above sections of this article. Parallel installations along the right of way of a highway are not permitted. Special conditions at a specific location that make adherence to this policy impractical will be submitted to the Chief Engineer for consideration of an acceptable alternative. In certain situations, it may be necessary to obtain approval from the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) before approval to use the alternative can be given to the private utility owner.

643.1.7 Water and Sewer Separations

The Missouri Department of Natural Resources (MoDNR) Safe Drinking Water Commission via 10 CSR 60-10 and Clean Water Commission via 10 CSR 20-8 govern the design of water and sewer lines in the vicinity of one another. Basic criteria are outlined below for information, and details are contained within the regulations. MoDOT is not responsible for providing or acquiring adequate right of way for utility owners to comply with MoDNR requirements.

643.1.7.1 Line Separations

643.1.7.1.1 Horizontal

Sanitary and storm sewers are to be laid at least ten feet (10’) horizontally measured from outside edge to outside edge from any existing or proposed water main. In cases where it is not practical to maintain ten feet (10’) of separation, installation of the water main closer to the sewer is acceptable where the water main is installed in a separate trench or on an undisturbed earth shelf located on one (1) side of the sewer at an elevation so the bottom of the water main is at least eighteen inches (18”) above the top of the sewer.

643.1.7.1.2 Crossings

Water mains are to be laid to provide a minimum vertical distance of eighteen inches (18”) vertically measured outside edge to edge from sanitary or storm sewers. This is the case whether the water main is above or below the sewer. One (1) full length of water pipe must be located so both joints will be as far from the sanitary or storm sewer line as possible. Special structural support for the water main or sanitary or sewer main may be required.

643.1.7.1.3 Exception

When it is impossible to obtain proper horizontal and vertical separation as stipulated, the sewer will be designed and constructed equal to water pipe and will be pressure-tested to assure it is watertight prior to backfilling.

643.1.7.2 Water Supply Interconnections

No physical connection is permitted between a public or private potable water supply system and any sanitary or storm sewer or appurtenance that would permit the passage of any sewage or polluted water into the water supply. No water pipe is permitted to pass through or come in contact with any part of a sanitary sewer manhole.

643.1.7.3 Water Works Structures

Sewers are not permitted to be installed within fifty feet (50’) in any direction from any existing or proposed public water supply well or other water supply sources or structures.

643.1.8 Variances

Occasionally, it is impractical to locate a utility facility in accordance with requirements outlined in this article. MoDOT may consider a utility owner’s request for a variance from these requirements on a case-by-case basis. The utility owner should complete a Utility Variance Approval Form to be submitted to MoDOT for consideration. Variances on the Interstate System require approval of the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). A flow chart, EPG Figure 643.1.8, of the variance process is available.

A variance will not be permitted just for the convenience of the utility owner. The utility owner requesting a variance must provide all necessary information to properly evaluate if a variance should be approved. For example, a utility owner requesting a variance because “the utility corridor is full” must explore all reasonable options. It is suggested that the requestor pothole the existing utility corridor to confirm the location of existing utility facilities and provide that data to support the need to locate outside of the utility corridor due to its congestion.

643.1.8.1 Variance Process

Any utility owner of a public utility facility may apply for a variance. The process for requesting a variance is as follows:

643.1.8.1.1 Submittal Requirements

Utility owners submit to the district utilities staff a written request for a variance using the Utility Variance Approval Form. The utility owner must clearly show the provision(s) or guideline(s) for which the variance is being requested; the condition(s) which the utility owner believes warrant(s) the granting of a variance; a thorough explanation of the reason(s) for the requested variance, including sufficient and appropriate documentation of safety, aesthetic, or constructability constraints that would be adverse to the function, access, or maintenance of the utility facility and not in the best interest of the public.

643.1.8.1.2 MoDOT Consideration of Variance Request

The utility owner bears full responsibility for demonstrating to MoDOT’s satisfaction that the variance is the most appropriate way to serve the public interest. MoDOT may present to the utility owner and the utility owner must consider reasonable alternatives to the variance requested by the utility owner. In determining whether to grant a variance, district utilities staff will consider all relevant factors including, but not limited to: the requested variance is reasonably necessary for the convenience, safety, health, and/or welfare of the public; there is an exceptional or undue burden or hardship on the specific applicant; a physical impracticability that would result from the applicant’s adherence to the normal location requirements; and the requested variance will not impair the safe construction, maintenance, operation, and safety of public travel on the highway. District utilities staff may consult with the Design Liaison Engineer in evaluating variances.

643.1.8.1.3 Approval of Variances

Once district utilities staff have agreed to accept a variance proposed by the utility owner, the Utility Variance Approval Form and all supporting documentation is sent to the District Design Engineer (DDE) for approval. If a variance is on interstate right of way, the DDE-signed Variance Request Form and all supporting documentation is forwarded to the Design Liaison Engineer who will forward to FHWA for their concurrence.

643.1.8.1.4 Variance Appeal Informal Hearing

If denied a variance, the utility owner has thirty (30) calendar days to request an informal hearing for the purpose of appealing the denial. Requests must be made in writing to the State Design Engineer, Missouri Department of Transportation, P.O. Box 270, Jefferson City, MO 65102. If the utility owner requests an informal hearing, MoDOT’s authorized representative will advise the applicant of the time, date, and place of the hearing. The hearing is not a contested case under RSMo 536. The rules of evidence will not apply at the hearing, and MoDOT’s decision after the conduct of the hearing is not subject to further appeal.

643.1.9 Excess Right of Way

Prior to conveyance of excess right of way, the status of utility facilities within said parcel must be addressed. See EPG 236.5.12.

643.1.10 Broadband

Broadband development in the state of Missouri is handled by the Department of Economic Development (DED). MoDOT shares its approved Statewide Transportation Improvement Program (STIP) project list with DED. All MoDOT policies related to placement of utility facilities within Commission right of way as outlined in this EPG 643.1 are to be followed.