For number of years Wasco County Public Works has required approach permits be taken out when new driveways are built along county roads. But we have not required approach permits on the driveways which intersect local access roads (or public roads), even though we do have jurisdiction on these roads. In recent years it has come to our attention that perhaps in some cases we should. Wasco County hearby states that landowners installing driveways onto public roads must contact the County Public Works Department, which will make a cursory review of the proposed installation. If, in the opinion of the Department, conditions warrant an approach permit, the same will be required. In most cases a verbal "go ahead" will be made.
Examples:
1. An approach request is made on a relatively flat public road which has good sight distance on either side. The County will not require an approach permit and will give a verbal "go-ahead".
2. An approach request is made on a steep, side-hill section where water drainage might come down the driveway to cause potential damage to the public road. The County will require an approach permit to ensure that the public road is protected for all who may be using that road.
Signed this 17th day of July, 1997.
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Dan Boldt, Director
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Jack Huskey, Road Superintendent