Permits
About OpenGov
The City of Watertown, SD uses OpenGov for an online permitting software. There are no longer paper applications as all engineering and building permits are online. With any questions about the online permit process, to verify if a permit has been issued, or for assistance with filling out a permit then please call or visit Engineering Division staff.
To visit the online permit portal, visit www.watertownpermits.com.
Schedule a Sidewalk Inspection
Please call (605) 882-6202 to schedule an inspection 24 hours or more in advance from pouring. You will want to call once forms are installed for form inspection and after pouring is completed for a final inspection.
Permit Applications & Descriptions
- Grading in Floodplain
- Approach Curb, Gutter, Sidewalk
- Utility Cut
- Materials on Street
- Letter of Responsibility
- Sidewalk Cafe
This permit is used for both grading activities and development in the floodplain. The permit expires on November 1st of the current year and must be renewed annually. Sites greater than one acre need a Notice of Intent from South Dakota Department of Natural Resources to complete the permit application.
DANR NOI: Fillable Pdf
APPLY NOWPublic sidewalks, approaches, curb cuts, driveways and sidewalk accessible ramps are regulated through the City Engineer’s Office. A permit is required before any work is initiated in the public right-of-way. Each property owner is responsible for the public sidewalk bordering their property.
The sidewalk shall be repaired or replaced as necessary, and shall be kept cleared of snow in the wintertime. The permit expires after 90 days. Cost-Participation Program The City currently has a cost-participation program to assist property owners in paying for the replacement of a public sidewalk in residential areas. A permit is required before beginning any work, and the sidewalk must conform to ADA standards. For further information about this program, contact the City Engineer’s Office at 605-882-6202.
Please see the following resources for the Street Approach, Curb & Gutter, and Sidewalk Permits:
Sidewalk Reimbursement Summary
APPLY NOWThe excavation of any street, sidewalk, alley or public right-of-way is regulated by through the City Engineer’s Office. A permit is required before any work is initiated in the public right-of-way. The permit expires after 90 days.
Contractor Requirement: The Contractor is responsible to patch the street pavement. The Contractor is also required to maintain all traffic control and protection of the excavation work. The excavation and repairs shall be completed as quickly as possible.
This permit is used to permit dumpsters, building materials, contractor trailers, and other building-related items on streets and City property. (Ordinance 5.0307)
APPLY NOWFor more information, please see section 3.4.3 titled "Letters of Responsibility" in the Engineering Design Standards or call Engineering Division at (605) 882-6202.
2.0115 Sidewalk Café Permits: Notwithstanding any other contrary provision of this code, the City Council may authorize businesses to operate sidewalk cafés upon public sidewalks and other public areas as hereinafter described, subject to the conditions set forth herein. A sidewalk café is defined as an outdoor area located in the public right-of-way which is operated and maintained by a coffeehouse, tea shop, restaurant or bar. The area in which sidewalk cafés may be permitted within the corporate limits of Watertown is the area identified as the Urban Renewal District. Such permit shall be subject to revocation at any time by the City Council. All permits shall be attested by the Finance Officer and signed by the Mayor as well.