Driveways

Repair or replacement of existing private driveways on-grade on private property generally does not require a building permit in the City of Rochester Hills. HOWEVER, specific regulations, standards, and permits apply depending on where the work occurs and whether you are altering the public right-of-way or expanding the driveway.

Permits and Approvals

• Private Property: A standard building permit is not required for repairing or replacing existing flatwork or on-grade driveways strictly on private property.

• Right-of-Way (Apron): A permit from the Engineering / Public Services Department is required for any construction, repair, or replacement of the driveway approach (apron) located within the public road right-of-way. The Apron is the section from the street to your property line (past the City's easement). You can check this for your property by looking in one of the Plats here.

• Driveway Widening/Extensions: Widening a driveway or altering lot coverage/setbacks may trigger local zoning reviews and rules regarding maximum impervious surface limits on your parcel.

Construction and Engineering Standards

• Engineering Specifications: Any connection to a public road must follow the Driveway Approach Details & Specifications maintained by the Rochester Hills Department of Public Services (DPS).

• Road Construction / Utility Work: If the city is actively working on your street, homeowners are responsible for removing non-compliant private items in the right-of-way (such as brick pavers, boulders, or sprinkler lines) before construction starts. New concrete typically requires a 5-day minimum curing time.

• Setbacks: Circulation and access drives must generally maintain proper setbacks (such as a minimum 5-foot separation from structures or side yards as dictated by specific zoning district rules).