Bin on a corner lot near a traffic light in Ottawa: what extra steps apply?

A bin within 30 metres of a signalized intersection triggers a specific City requirement: the TCE permit application must include a Traffic Management Plan. The City also requires a minimum of 10 business days processing time for any TCE permit.

The City's TCE permit page lists a Traffic Management Plan as required when the encroachment is within 30 metres of a signalized intersection. Whether a corner lot is inside that distance depends on the lot, so measure it; a bin on the road, boulevard or sidewalk there is on City land, so the TCE permit applies. The permit is issued in the name of the permit holder and is not transferable. The City accepts applications from residents, contractors or construction companies, so agree in writing with the bin company before booking who will apply and who will prepare the Traffic Management Plan.

A corner lot also raises a second point. The City's TCE permit page notes that all traffic control devices are the permit holder's responsibility, in general conformance with the Ontario Traffic Manual Book 7. We found no City rule listing specific devices such as reflectors or cones for bins; Book 7 governs what is needed.

A few things to confirm before the bin arrives:

• Ask the bin company whether it has handled TCE applications near signalized intersections and who, in their experience, prepares the Traffic Management Plan.
• Measure the distance from your intended bin placement to the nearest traffic signal, because the 30 metre threshold is the City's trigger.
• Ask whether the bin can go on the driveway instead. The TCE permit covers City land: the road, boulevard, sidewalk and public laneways. The end of a driveway near the street can be City land; check geoOttawa or ask the City's ROW Permit Office where your property line sits.
• If a parking space must be removed for the bin, the City requires a minimum of four business days notice for that step.

The permit fees and the daily road rental are City charges, separate from the bin company's price.

Measure the distance from the bin's spot to the nearest signal before anyone applies; that number decides whether the Traffic Management Plan is needed.