Installing Driveway Aprons

A driveway apron is an important part of any pavement project, whether it’s a small entrance to a residence or a large, high-traffic entrance to your business’s parking lot. A driveway apron, also called an approach or skirt, is the section where the driveway meets the road, and these aprons are an extra important part of the project mainly because of their impact on the city’s drainage system. Aprons often are regulated by local municipalities, and it’s common to need to apply for a permit before installing, repairing, or replacing an apron. Make sure you know these codes and requirements to eliminate the possibility of a fine.

Codes and Requirements

Because the installation of an apron affects the city’s water drainage, driveway apron requirements must be applied. These areas may also be considered public access, similar to public sidewalks, which also means adherence to certain codes. City requirements often include the following factors:

• Location within the parking lot
• Where to enter from the street
• Who can install it legally (business owner, contractor, homeowner, city worker, etc.)
• Curb type and how it can be cut and shaped
• Angle and slope to ensure effective water run-off (must drain into the gutter)
• Length and width
• Surface material type and thickness (asphalt, concrete, stone, pavers, etc.)
• Base layer type and thickness (sand, gravel, etc.)
• Reinforcement requirements (such as steel rebar).

For most older properties and neighborhoods (typically pre-1950), driveway aprons probably are not going to be compliant with current codes. Typically, cities will grandfather in these aprons, and you don’t need to worry about replacing them simply to bring them up to code. However, if the apron does need repair and you plan to tackle that work, the newly rebuilt apron will need to be installed to code. Failing to do so can result in a fine, and you’ll likely need to redo it.

When it’s time to start your pavement project, make sure you are using a company that knows your city’s codes for driveway aprons. Likewise, if you’re needing to install sidewalks or other walking paths, make sure they know the regulations and who covers the cost—sometimes city workers need to install public sections of walking paths. (In this same vein, ADA codes for disability access is another crucial component to consider when paving parking lots and walkways for businesses.) Essentially, the important takeaway is to ensure you’re hiring a professional company that is an expert on codes and regulations in addition to providing reliable and high-quality work. Go Pave Utah works in numerous cities around the state and keeps up to date on the varying codes and regulations. With our crew on your job, you won’t have to worry if we’re installing the driveway apron, or any other section, correctly. You can rest assured we’re following the rules while also paving a perfect pavement for your perfect project. And, make sure you’re keeping up with codes all year round with our expert property management services, including snow and ice removal. Still not convinced? Call us today with your questions.