Effective August 1, 2026, the Telecommunications section of Houston Public Works has provided the following updates related to Subsurface Utility Engineering (SUE) and work within the public right-of-way:
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Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) is no longer accepted as a reliable method for Level-B Subsurface Utility Engineering verification for utilities greater than 3 feet in depth. Exception based on GPR results to be determined on a case-by-case basis.
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Electromagnetic induction remains an acceptable means of utility verification for Level-B Subsurface Utility Engineering.
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The Engineer of Record is required to attend meetings related to project comments.
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A Street Cut Permit is required for excavation within the public right-of-way, including Level- A Subsurface Utility Engineering coring.
For more resources, visit Telecommunications webpage at https://bit.ly/4i10KUf
For questions, contact Telecommunication team at (832) 394-8858 or [email protected].