Stockton · San Joaquin County
Driveway approaches and curb cuts in Stockton
The approach is the sloped piece of concrete between the street and the sidewalk. Changing it, widening it or adding a new curb cut is City work in Stockton, with its own permit and rules.
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Why the approach is different from the rest of the driveway
Your driveway on your lot is private flatwork. The approach, the curb and the sidewalk crossing are in the public right-of-way, so the City of Stockton controls them. Any installation or repair of a driveway approach, sidewalk, curb or gutter requires a City encroachment permit.
Stockton's driveway width and parking limits
Stockton's parking code (Municipal Code 16.64.090) only allows vehicles in the front setback on a paved driveway, and paved driveway can cover no more than 50 percent of the front and street-side setback area. Before widening, measure the setback and plan the new width so it stays within that limit.
RVs, boats and trailers can't be stored in the front or street-side yard at all; they need an improved surface behind a fence at least six feet tall. If the goal of a wider approach is RV access to a side yard, the pad and gate are part of the plan.
The encroachment permit process
The contractor submits an Encroachment Permit Application through the City's Accela portal, by email to Engineering or at the Permit Center, with insurance documents and a traffic or pedestrian control plan, then pays the permit fee and security deposit. Every contractor and subcontractor needs a City business license. The City inspects the forms and finished work.
Approach work is built to the City's standard specifications for thickness and slope, which are thicker than a typical driveway because street traffic crosses the edge.
Cost
Replacing an existing approach typically adds $1,000–$2,500 to a driveway job in Stockton, depending on width and whether the curb and gutter are replaced. A new curb cut costs more because the existing curb has to be sawcut and removed and the sidewalk reshaped. Permit fees are set by the City.
Common questions
Do I need a permit to widen my driveway approach in Stockton?
Yes. Any installation or repair of a driveway approach, curb, gutter or sidewalk needs a City of Stockton encroachment permit.
How wide can my driveway be in Stockton?
Paved driveway can cover up to 50 percent of the front setback area. The contractor should measure your lot and confirm with the City.
Who can pull the encroachment permit?
Typically the licensed contractor doing the work, who must also hold a City of Stockton business license and provide insurance.
Related services
Concrete Driveways in Stockton · RV Pads & Driveway Extensions in Stockton
Rules summarized from City of Stockton sources as of October 2026. Codes and fees change; confirm current requirements with the City before starting work.
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