Land records · Parcel maps · October 7, 2026
What Is a Curb Cut? Driveway Openings Explained
What is a curb cut? A lowered section of curb that allows a driveway or ramp to meet the street. Who approves curb cuts and what to know before adding one.
What is a curb cut? A curb cut is a section of curb that has been lowered or removed so vehicles can drive from the street onto a driveway, or so pedestrians and wheelchairs can move between the sidewalk and the street. In zoning and permitting, curb cut usually refers to a driveway opening, which requires approval from the city or road agency because it changes the public right of way. Cities regulate curb cuts to protect pedestrian safety, on-street parking, street trees, and traffic flow. Accessible curb ramps at intersections are a related but separate requirement. This page is general land-records background, not legal advice.
Why curb cuts are regulated
| Concern | How rules respond |
|---|---|
| Pedestrian safety | Limits number and width of driveway crossings |
| On-street parking | Each cut removes curb space |
| Traffic | Spacing from intersections |
| Street trees and utilities | Avoiding conflicts with poles and trees |
| Drainage | Maintaining gutter flow |
Getting a curb cut approved
- Check zoning and street rules for driveway spacing and widths.
- Submit a permit application with a site plan.
- Pay fees and possibly restoration deposits.
- Hire a contractor licensed for right of way work.
- Pass inspection.
Curb cuts are often handled under a driveway permit.
Common limits
- Maximum width, often 10 to 24 feet for residential.
- Minimum distance from intersections.
- One curb cut per lot frontage in many residential areas.
- Restrictions on curb cuts on main streets in favor of alley access.
Closing an unused curb cut
When a driveway is removed, cities may require restoring the full-height curb and sidewalk so on-street parking returns.
Sidewalks
The driveway crosses the sidewalk, so cities set standards for the sidewalk section, slope, and materials. In some places the sidewalk sits in a recorded sidewalk easement on private land rather than in the right of way.
Pedestrian curb ramps
At crosswalks, accessible curb ramps are required under federal accessibility standards. These are installed by the city or developers and are not the same as driveway curb cuts.
Records
Curb cut permits are filed with the public works or building department. See how to find building permits for a property.
Example
A homeowner wants to add a driveway to a house that has always relied on street parking. The city allows a 12-foot curb cut if it is at least 25 feet from the corner and does not remove a street tree. The permit requires the contractor to rebuild the sidewalk at the correct slope.
Commercial curb cuts
Commercial sites may face stricter limits, shared driveway requirements, and traffic studies, especially on busy roads. See how to find out if a road is public.
Unpermitted curb cuts
Cutting a curb without approval can lead to fines and orders to restore it, and may complicate a sale.
Bottom line
A curb cut is a lowered curb section allowing a driveway or ramp to meet the street. Driveway curb cuts change the public right of way and require city approval with limits on width and spacing. Check rules and permit history before adding one. Find local offices via the Platbookmapper map.
What is a curb cut FAQ
What is a curb cut?
A lowered curb for a driveway or ramp.
Do I need a permit for a curb cut?
Usually yes.
How wide can a curb cut be?
Limits vary, often 10 to 24 feet for homes.
Can the city deny a curb cut?
Yes, for safety or spacing reasons.
Who pays for a curb cut?
Usually the property owner.