Concrete Driveways & Sidewalks in Bremerton, WA

Driveways & sidewalks in Bremerton: what to know

The apron is set by the Public Works standards. Division 3, section 3-20.16(1), requires an expansion joint in the center of any driveway apron more than fifteen feet wide. Section 3-20.1(6)A2 sets the apron’s elevation at the property line: where the drive rises from the street, that elevation may be up to 3 inches above the street centerline, and where it falls, it may not sit below the centerline. We set the apron to those limits and record the figures on the scope.

The approach also needs a Type B permit under BMC 11.02.080(B)(2), which lists curb cuts, handicap ramps, and driveway approaches. Work in the right-of-way needs a right-of-way use permit under BMC 11.02.060(A), and the Director of Public Works and Utilities or a designee approves it. The slab is separate, so we confirm its height and any lower level with city staff before the concrete is ordered.

Permits and rules in Bremerton

Before the quote goes out, we confirm which permit each part of the drive falls under. The approach and any right-of-way work are listed as Type B and right-of-way items, with the Director of Public Works and Utilities named as the approving official. The slab sits on its own line with its rise and any lower level. Where the answer depends on a city reading, that line stays open until the reply is in writing.

Rules change and vary by parcel, so we confirm the current requirements with the city before we start.

How we approach it

Log the apron elevation at the property line against the centerline
Set an expansion joint in any apron wider than fifteen feet
Confirm the Type B approach permit before forming the apron
Hold the slab height question for written city direction

For the full process, see our Concrete Driveways & Sidewalks page.

Building in the cold months? See our guide to winter concrete pours.

Our driveways & sidewalks work, serving Bremerton

Examples of our work. We build driveways & sidewalks in Bremerton and the cities around it. See all of our work

Questions from Bremerton homeowners

Does a Bremerton driveway approach need a permit?

Yes. A driveway approach is a Type B permit item under BMC 11.02.080(B)(2), and work in the right-of-way needs a right-of-way use permit under BMC 11.02.060(A). We confirm the permit lines with city staff before the approach is formed.

How wide can a Bremerton driveway apron be before it needs a joint?

Division 3 of the city’s standards requires an expansion joint in the center of any apron over fifteen feet wide. Aprons at or under that width fall outside that rule, and we still mark the width and elevation on the scope before concrete is ordered.

Does a Bremerton driveway slab need its own building permit?

The city’s building handout does not address driveways, so we do not assume an exemption. We measure the slab’s height above grade and any lower level, then ask city staff for a written answer before the schedule is set. The reply and its date go into the job file.