What insurance does a Complex encroachment permit in Ottawa require?

A Complex TCE permit requires commercial general liability insurance of at least $5,000,000, naming the City of Ottawa as additional insured.

That threshold applies when the encroachment runs longer than 10 working days, or when a Simple permit is renewed. City staff determine which category applies, so if your bin might stay on the street beyond 10 working days, plan for the Complex permit's insurance requirement from the start.

The permit is issued in the name of the permit holder and is not transferable. Because the City accepts applications from residents, contractors or construction companies, agree in writing with the bin company before the bin arrives on who holds the permit and who carries the required insurance. If the permit is in your name, the insurance obligation falls to you; if it is in the company's name, confirm they carry coverage that meets the $5,000,000 threshold and names the City as additional insured, and ask to see that confirmation in writing.

A few other Complex permit duties are worth knowing. The permit holder must post it prominently on the exterior of the encroachment area. All traffic control devices are the permit holder's responsibility, in general conformance with the Ontario Traffic Manual Book 7. A Traffic Management Plan is required near a bus stop or route, a closed sidewalk, bike lane or road, a fire hydrant, or within 30 metres of a signalized intersection. In winter, the permit holder is responsible for removing snow from the encroachment area and keeping all walkways and pedestrian throughways clear. The City may revoke the permit at any time.

Before anyone applies, settle in writing who will hold the permit and carry the insurance, because the insurance has to be in that holder's name.