Get an Instant Quote on Statewide Encroachment and Right of Way Bond
Introduction
From our perspective, contractors and utility companies working in Utah want to stay compliant with public regulations while completing projects that require use of state highways, sidewalks, or rights-of-way. Whether you’re trenching for a telecom installation, cutting into a roadway for water lines, or performing slope work along a highway, Utah’s Department of Transportation (UDOT) has one clear requirement before a permit is granted: a surety bond.
The Utah DOT – Statewide Encroachment and Right of Way Bond guarantees that the permit holder will repair and restore affected areas to their original condition after construction. This bond acts as a financial safety net for UDOT and the public, ensuring that work done on public right-of-way is safe, completed properly, and not left in disrepair. Like the Utah – Sales Tax Bond protects state tax revenue and the Utah – Escrow Agency Bond secures client funds in real estate transactions, this bond exists to protect public assets.
Confusion Around Right-of-Way Bonding in Utah
We’ve noticed that many contractors mix up this bond with others that sound similar but apply to very different obligations. For instance, businesses often try to use a Utah – Sales Tax Bond to meet permit requirements, not realizing that it applies only to businesses collecting sales tax. Others mistakenly think a local construction bond satisfies state highway requirements, when in fact UDOT requires a specific bond format for right-of-way access.
It’s also common to misinterpret which types of projects trigger the bond. Any disturbance—no matter how small—on a state-maintained road, sidewalk, or easement can require this bond. Without the correct paperwork, projects can stall before they start.
Swiftbonds as a Trusted Right-of-Way Bond Partner
Based on our experience, Swiftbonds provides support for Utah contractors, engineers, and developers needing to file the Utah DOT – Statewide Encroachment and Right of Way Bond quickly and correctly. We help clients understand what the bond covers, how to fill it out, and where to submit it to avoid delays.
Swiftbonds has a strong track record of assisting clients across industries—including those who also need financial guarantees like the Utah – Escrow Agency Bond for escrow firms or the Utah – Sales Tax Bond for retail operations. We understand that bonding is often the last step before work begins, and we take pride in helping clients get approved and start on time.
Steps to Secure a UDOT Encroachment and Right of Way Bond
What we’ve discovered is that the bonding process can be smooth if you follow a defined plan:
- Apply for an Encroachment Permit With UDOT
Go to UDOT’s Right of Way Permits portal and begin your application based on project location, type of work, and anticipated duration. - Review Bonding Requirements
UDOT may require a bond amount based on the project scope, typically ranging from $5,000 to $100,000. The requirement is often listed on your permit application or provided by a regional UDOT engineer. - Get a Bond Quote From Swiftbonds
Contact Swiftbonds with your estimated bond amount, permit number, and business credentials. We’ll review your risk profile and provide a quote. - Sign and Issue the Bond
After approval, pay the premium and sign the bond. Swiftbonds will issue a completed bond using the correct UDOT form. - Submit the Bond With Your Permit Packet
Include the original bond when finalizing your permit application. UDOT will not approve the permit until this bond is received and verified. - Maintain the Bond Throughout Construction
Keep the bond active until UDOT confirms project completion and site restoration. Bond cancellation prior to project closure can trigger a claim. - Renew or Close the Bond Based on Permit Status
If work continues past the permit’s expiration, renew the bond. If the job is complete and accepted, the bond can be released.
Each of these steps supports legal compliance and builds trust with state agencies that manage public infrastructure.
Risks of Proceeding Without the Correct Bond
In our observation, skipping or misunderstanding the Utah DOT – Statewide Encroachment and Right of Way Bond requirement leads to more than just project delays. Contractors risk permit denial, costly job site shutdowns, and even personal liability for damage to state-owned property.
Submitting the wrong bond type is another recurring pitfall. Bonds like the Utah – Sales Tax Bond and Utah – Escrow Agency Bond might satisfy financial requirements in other industries, but they offer no protection or coverage for physical site restoration. UDOT will reject these documents, and the project will remain on hold until the correct bond is on file.
In worst-case scenarios, failure to file the right bond and repair damages can result in state intervention, litigation, and revoked access to future public works contracts.
Benefits of Working With Swiftbonds
We’ve learned that Utah contractors rely on Swiftbonds not only for fast processing but for reliable guidance through the bonding process. Our team provides complete support, from identifying the correct bond type to meeting specific formatting requirements dictated by UDOT.
Just as the Utah – Sales Tax Bond ensures honest business operation, and the Utah – Escrow Agency Bond reassures homebuyers and sellers, the right-of-way bond signals to UDOT that you’re a trustworthy contractor who will restore what’s disturbed.
We work quickly, provide low rates, and guide you step-by-step to get your project started without red tape. Whether you need a single bond for a sidewalk project or ongoing bonding for recurring highway work, Swiftbonds makes it easy.
State Statutes and UDOT Requirements
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Utah Code § 72-6-116 – Permit for Use of Right-of-Way
Authorizes UDOT to require permits and bonding before allowing any person to alter or encroach upon state rights-of-way.
https://le.utah.gov/xcode/Title72/Chapter6/72-6-S116.html -
UDOT Policy 08A2 – Encroachment Permits
Establishes bonding requirements and restoration responsibilities for all projects disturbing state roads, highways, or sidewalks.
https://www.udot.utah.gov -
Utah Administrative Code R930-7 – Right-of-Way Permits
Provides detailed administrative rules for issuance, bonding, and enforcement of encroachment permits.
https://rules.utah.gov/publicat/code/r930/r930-007.htm
Conclusion
We’ve come to appreciate that the Utah DOT – Statewide Encroachment and Right of Way Bond serves a vital role in maintaining Utah’s public infrastructure. Contractors benefit from quicker permit approval, while UDOT gains confidence that public roads and walkways will be restored safely and promptly.
Swiftbonds provides accurate, compliant bonds for UDOT projects, tax licensing, escrow operations, and more. Whether you’re working along a highway shoulder or registering with the Tax Commission, we’re ready to help. If you also need a Utah – Sales Tax Bond or a Utah – Escrow Agency Bond, our team can issue everything in one place with no confusion.
Call Swiftbonds today to get your UDOT right-of-way bond approved and your project moving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who needs a Utah DOT – Statewide Encroachment and Right of Way Bond?
Any contractor or entity performing work that disturbs state-owned roads, sidewalks, shoulders, or easements must file this bond before a permit is approved.
Can I use a Utah – Sales Tax Bond for my UDOT permit?
No. The Sales Tax Bond is for businesses collecting sales tax. UDOT requires a separate bond that guarantees site restoration.
What’s the typical bond amount UDOT requires?
Bond amounts vary depending on the size and risk of the project. Common minimums start at $5,000 but can exceed $100,000.
Does this bond cover work on city or county roads?
No. This bond applies only to projects impacting state-managed infrastructure. Local jurisdictions have separate requirements.
Can the Utah – Escrow Agency Bond substitute for this requirement?
No. Escrow Agency Bonds apply to real estate and financial services. The UDOT bond is construction-specific.
How long does it take to get this bond through Swiftbonds?
Most bonds can be approved and issued in one business day, depending on your credit and application details.