Engineering Department

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

"What is a land disturbing permit?"

A land disturbing permit is required by the City of Salem for any activity that will involve 5,000 or more square feet of land disturbance*. A site plan prepared by a professional engineering firm is required. Occasionally, the site plan requirement can be waived and the developer may execute an "Agreement in Lieu of a Plan," upon approval of the City by Salem Engineering Department.

This permit is granted on condition that all work be done in accordance with all lawful covenants and restrictions, City Ordinances, plans, specifications and applications filed in the office of the City Engineer.

A permit costs $25.00. Upon issuance of the permit, the developer is required to inform the City of Salem Engineering Department a minimum of three days in advance of start of work for an inspection of erosion and sediment control measures provided at the site.

* In addition, all small construction activities in the Commonwealth (greater than or equal to one acre) may fall under the Stormwater Discharges from Small Construction Activities (VAR 10) regulations of the Virginia Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (VPDES). Please contact the Salem Engineering Department (540)375-3032 or the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (VDEQ) at (540)562-6700 for additional information.

How do I contact Miss Utility?

1-800-552-7001

www.missutilityofvirginia.com

QUESTION: Why wasn't the water line in my backyard marked after I called Miss Utility?
ANSWER: The water line in your backyard is located on your private property. The City will only mark utilities that are located in the City's right-of-way or public easements.

QUESTION: Where is the septic located on my property?
ANSWER: The City of Salem does not have records of septic tanks. If your property has a septic located on it, you should contact the Health Department at 387-5530.

What Streets will be paved this year?

Street Repairs
Beginning Monday, October 1 2007, Lanford Brothers will begin milling the following streets in Salem:

Sawyer Paving will follow the same schedule for paving. Some delays should be expected. Questions should be directed to the City of Salem Engineering Department at 375-3032.